Looking for RFP template to send out to a few SaaS Accounting/ERP providers.

RFP models are most useful in a couple scenarios: (a) when you want to make sure the important items are covered and that nothing is forgotten or missed; (b) when you are trying to demonstrate selection fairness to an internal committee. However I would postulate that most generic RFPs offer no specific value on their own – and that they can actually be less than helpful.

Some thoughts on your financial system selection:
1) Start with what is unique about your company. As a SaaS based software company you differ from other companies in your needs around revenue and billing management. Your requirements in this area should receive detailed attention.
2) Secondary areas to consider are things that may be less unique, but not typical of most businesses. In this area you identify multi-national operations (if you have them) since that introduces its own complexities. If you have a professional services group you could consider those requirements in this category
3) Bullet points the basics. You’ll need solid financials, payables, bank management, and so on. There are incremental differences in this area between providers – but probably not enough to make a huge impact on your organization.
4) Think about scalability and extensibility. Think about where your company will be in 3-5 years. Ask questions about how easy it is to integrate your system to other systems, and how easy it is to add in reporting or analytics tools. Think about workflow. In many ways the value of the ERP system is in the platform as well.
5) Think about the type of provider you want. In the end you will be working with a 3rd party provider to help you implement and to get the most out of your system. If the provider is telling you this is not required probe deeper. My suggestion here is to expect more. Expect that your provider understands your industry – there is no need for you to teach them your business.

Hope this helps.