For those who have not had a chance to read about it lately, here’s a link to an article about how Zappo’s put 104 ad agencies through the hoops in a botched RFP process.

This is my invitation to Zappos to participate in my RFP process:

I need shoes.  I am considering shoe vendors who would like to sell me shoes.  If you would like to participate in this RFP process please submit your completed materials to me within 48 hours of reading this.  All RFP responses must contain the following to be considered.

• Bios and background on the company owners as well as the key members of my shoe account team
• Relevant case studies of similar shoe vending experiences including results
• Explanation of key issues that you have identified in my shoe purchasing situation with specific explanations of how you would solve for these issues
• Physical examples of the shoes that you would recommend sent to me in multiple sizes for my review
• Costs broken down by materials, construction and delivery
• Any additional materials that will explain your qualifications or the shoe recommendations that you are making

Please note that no shoes sent to me as part of this process will be returned.  Only RFP responses that contain shoes will be considered.  I will notify the selected vendor at a point of my choosing.  All other vendors will hear nothing.  Any attempts to contact me will be met with white noise.

Thanks for your interest and we look forward to receiving your response shortly.