Run an evidence-based proposal scorecard

Selection principle

Set criteria and weights before opening proposals, then score evidence rather than confidence.

Several proposals use different language and formats, making the team compare impressions instead of the same decision criteria.

Use it in the selection process

Start with these decisions

1. Choose criteria tied to the approved need, constraints, delivery, adoption, and handoff.
2. Give every evaluator the same proposal set and conflict disclosure.
3. Record evidence, assumptions, open questions, and score separately.
4. Resolve major scoring differences through cited proposal evidence and follow-up questions.

Pause point

Do not let an impressive proposal replace accountable nonprofit judgment

A scorecard supports judgment; it does not replace reference checks, security review, contract review, procurement rules, board requirements, or funder restrictions that apply to the nonprofit.