Writing a Proposal

WRITING A PROPOSAL

My main focus of proposal writing here is in relation to Marketing Research and Information.

My assumption is that at this stage, you have once or more times presented a proposal, or being a recipient to one at a particular time(multiple acceptance may lead to emotional imbalance-lol)

I will stick to my assumption. Except that the mode of delivery was verbal rather than written. It is usually easier to speak but when it comes to writing, a number of students do not know where to start.


2. Start with the introduction where you will explain what the reader must expect in your paper/presentation.

2. Proceed with a background. What is it that made you write the proposal? It could be that you are doing so in response to a brief. For the exam, you will usually be given a brief which as the name suggests, is brief.

3. Set your objectives. Clearly specify what it is that you would to achieve when and after the implementation of your proposal. The good thing about this part is that all that could be doing is reflecting what the objectives as were given in the brief.

Always remember that the objectives must be SMART.

I have noticed that some students include a set of questions to ask in achieving informational objectives. There is really nothing wrong with that. You may then however need to change the heading from Objectives to something like Objectives and Respective Questions.

4. Now that you have the objectives and questions to be asked to achieve the predefined goals, identify from whom answers will come. Yes, it is at this stage that you do your sampling.

Avoid sounding too academic my beginning to explain what sampling is and the different methods available. Notice that i did not say do not do it but rather that you must sound professional and talk about how you will select your sample and how. Explain how you will reduce the risk of errors there are always inadequacies when sampling.

5. specify data collection methods. It is important for students to here note that a justification for a data collection method must be given for each. It is therefore not just a matter of stating that questionnaires will be used.

It is here that any other matter related to data collection methods be addressed. Examples include administration of questionnaires and moderation of focus groups.

6. Budget. Your proposal must show how much you intend to spend and on what. Usually, in an brief, a block figure may be given. It is then your responsibility to show how you will spend the money.

7. Schedule. Draw a Gantt chart showing what activity will be conducted when. Since work is now submitted typed, this should then not be difficult to design. However, it more than just design...

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No, i am not crazy. I have left 8-10 blank so that you can fill them up yourself.

What points do you have in mind? Share them here.

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If you would like a free assessment on your ability to write a proposal, email saboi@marketinginzambia.com. I will send you more details. Or if you wish, you may call/sms +260966930260.

All the best!