Request for Quote (RFQ) is one of the trading mechanisms available in WebSphere Commerce. When you publish the ToolTech sample store, you get the RFQ request tool. A buyer can create an RFQ for unique variations of goods and services that are offered in the catalog. If buyers cannot find a product matching their needs in the catalog, they can select attributes from the personalized attributes dictionary to precisely define the product specifications.
A requisition list is used by buyers to add desired products to their RFQ. Buyers can include multiple products in one RFQ, and define unique specifications for each product. They can include attachments on the RFQ or product specification level. They can also specify the terms and conditions for the transaction. When the buyer submits an RFQ request, it is placed into a "future" or "active" state. Through the WebSphere Commerce Accelerator, a seller can view the RFQ and submit a response when the request is in an "active" state. A buyer can also change or cancel an RFQ.
When sellers respond to an RFQ, they have the option of responding to each attachment, terms and conditions, and product, as well as to each product specification or comment. They have the option of specifying a fulfillment center, or substituting a product if the buyer has provided that option in the request. A seller can also modify or cancel a response.
Once sellers have responded to the RFQ, the buyer closes the RFQ and evaluates the responses to choose a winner, or multiple winners. When the RFQ response is accepted by the buyer and the seller is notified, the RFQ transaction is completed through one of the following processes:
- The buyer places an order that already contains the RFQ information.
- A contract already containing the RFQ information is created.
- The RFQ can go to next round.
A record of the RFQ is maintained in the RFQ List for a predetermined period, so that the buyer can copy an RFQ that they repeatedly use. Responses are retained for the same period to facilitate a seller's response to similar requests from the same buyer.
The Site Administrator makes the decision, during the setup of WebSphere Commerce, if they want to enable the RFQ trading mechanism. If the decision is made to include the RFQ option, the Site Administrator must consider the following:
- Should approvals for the RFQ response process if enabled? If enabled, responses will be reviewed prior to transmittal to the buyer.
- Notification and job scheduling must be enabled to ensure that buyers and sellers are notified of changes in the status of RFQ requests and responses.
For more information on RFQ requests, see the WebSphere Commerce Sample Store Guide.