The first stage of the process, acquisition/procurement planning, begins with market research to determine the vendors, equipment, and costs involved. In determination of needs, one must decide what services are needed and how they will fit into the overall supervision plan. The entire procurement planning process can take up to one year including three months for solicitation preparation. While agencies can put out an Invitation for Bids (IFB) or Request for Proposals (RFP), the latter type is recommended because it allows technical evaluations. The key to writing an RFP statement of work is defining the requirements for the EMS services required in an easily understood manner. The major requirements are descriptions of the transmitter, receiver/dialer, central computer, and services required from the monitoring services provider. The statement of work must also address reimbursement issues, security requirements, and the technical questionnaire. The proposal evaluation stage of the procurement process consists of technical clarifications, competitive range determinations, and a request for best and final offers before the contract is awarded. In the contract administration stage, a Contracting Officer's Technical Representative is chosen, a post-award conference is held, and the work is begun. 2 notes.