Consider the following scenario:

Management at your project management firm wants to ensure staff members are fully
trained on new technologies before planning, developing, and maintaining information
technology projects for clients. As a result, your managers have decided to implement
training for your company’s 25-member project team. The training will focus on a variety
of software application packages, starting with a Microsoft® Project application. You have
been asked to write an internal proposal for this training. You have also been asked to
write an external proposal for the same type of training.

List the different elements that are found in an internal proposal
and an external proposal for this training.
· Summarize why the two proposal types are different in terms of these elements.

When you have written the proposal, we will be happy to give you suggestions and corrections.

In an internal proposal, the elements typically include:

1. Introduction: This section provides an overview of the proposal and clearly states the purpose and objectives of the training.
2. Background: It explains the context and motivation behind the need for training, such as new technologies or changes in project requirements.
3. Scope: It defines the scope of the training, including the specific software applications to be covered and the target audience.
4. Training objectives: This section outlines the specific goals and outcomes expected from the training program.
5. Training plan: It provides a detailed plan, including the duration, training methods (e.g., workshops, online courses), and any external resources or trainers needed.
6. Budget: It presents the estimated costs for the training, including any expenses related to materials, trainers, venues, or logistics.
7. Implementation timeline: It outlines the timeline for the training program, including key milestones and target completion dates.
8. Evaluation and feedback: This section describes how the success of the training will be measured and how feedback from participants will be collected.
9. Next steps: It provides the next steps or actions required to proceed with the training program, such as approvals, scheduling, or resource allocation.

On the other hand, an external proposal for the same training would have some additional elements:

1. Company background: It provides a brief introduction and overview of the project management firm, including its expertise and experience in delivering similar training programs.
2. Client needs analysis: This section highlights the specific needs and requirements of the potential clients, emphasizing how the proposed training aligns with their goals and objectives.
3. Proposed solution: It outlines the training program in detail, including the topics covered, training format, customization options, and any additional services or support offered.
4. Competitive advantage: This section describes the unique selling points of the project management firm, showcasing its expertise, success stories, or testimonials from previous clients.
5. Pricing and delivery terms: It presents different pricing options, including any discounts or special offers, and outlines the terms and conditions for delivery, such as payment terms, cancellation policy, or warranties.

The two proposal types differ primarily because the internal proposal focuses on addressing the needs of the organization and its employees, while the external proposal targets potential clients and aims to persuade them to choose the project management firm for their training needs. Internal proposals have a more internal perspective, emphasizing the alignment with company goals and available resources, while external proposals have an external focus, highlighting the benefits for the clients and the competitive advantages of the project management firm.