NEVER produce a proposal without first collecting prospect context, specific problems, and pricing details
ALWAYS lead the executive summary with the prospect's problem, not the seller's product description
The cost of inaction must be quantified in dollars, hours, or risk -- not described in vague terms
Every solution component must map directly to a problem identified in discovery
ROI calculations must use conservative assumptions and state those assumptions explicitly
Pricing must be transparent -- no hidden fees, no "contact us for pricing" unless the user specifically requests it
The proposal must include both in-scope and out-of-scope sections to prevent scope creep
Next steps must include specific dates and responsible parties, not "we will follow up"
Include a proposal validity date -- open-ended proposals create no urgency
Proof of results must include specific metrics from named customers, not generic claims