Writing Storage RFPs in 2012

The data storage industry has changed dramatically over the past few years. The traditional Request for Proposal (RFP) does not address these changes or the challenges faced by IT organizations. Therefore, a new way of defining storage requirements to leverage this evolving technology is needed. This tutorial defines the “must-have” criteria that should be included in any data storage RFP in the current era. Performance, scalability, and resiliency are given; but new challenges will arise around server and desk top virtualization, power consumption, space requirements, and overall cost containment. Accommodations for developing technologies must be designed into the RFP. Attendees of this session will receive an RFP template designed specifically to take advantage of current storage and IT technologies.

Learning Objectives

Understand which new technological features being introduced by storage vendors are important to have.
While most RFPs concentrate on technology, it is important to elicit responses that speak to other aspects of dealing with a vendor such as support, education, roadmap, partnerships, etc.
Understand how to write an RFP that generates differentiated responses and yields a clear picture of the vendor and vendors product.