Question 1

What's the difference between proposal and contract software?

Accepted Answer

Proposal software focuses on selling—beautiful designs, pricing tables, content. Contract software focuses on legal—terms, compliance, audit trails. Many tools now combine both.

Question 2

Do I need a separate e-signature tool?

Accepted Answer

Most proposal tools include e-signatures. Standalone tools (DocuSign, Dropbox Sign) are better for high-volume, legally complex scenarios. For most startups, integrated signatures are sufficient.

Question 3

How do proposal analytics help close deals?

Accepted Answer

See when prospects open your proposal, which sections they linger on, if they forward to others. Time follow-ups when they're actively reviewing. Engagement data reveals intent.

Question 4

Should proposals be PDFs or web-based?

Accepted Answer

Web-based proposals (Qwilr, PandaDoc) provide analytics, interactive pricing, and easier signing. PDFs are static and hide-bound. Web-based is almost always better for sales.

Question 5

How do I create proposal templates?

Accepted Answer

Start with your best-performing proposal. Identify sections that repeat (about us, process, case studies). Create modular content blocks. Build 2-3 templates for different scenarios.

Question 6

What should every proposal include?

Accepted Answer

Executive summary, understanding of their problem, your solution, specific outcomes/benefits, pricing, timeline, next steps, social proof. Lead with value, not credentials.

Question 7

How do I handle custom pricing in proposals?

Accepted Answer

Use pricing tables with line items. Enable quantity adjustments if relevant. Some tools allow client-selected options. Keep pricing simple—confusion kills deals.

Question 8

When should I send proposals?

Accepted Answer

After you've qualified need and budget, ideally same day as discovery call. Speed matters—first vendor to propose often wins. But never before understanding requirements.

Question 9

How do I follow up on sent proposals?

Accepted Answer

Follow up when you see they've viewed it (if tool supports). Otherwise, 2-3 days after sending. Ask if they have questions rather than pushing for signature. Be helpful, not pushy.

Question 10

What makes proposals get signed faster?

Accepted Answer

Clear pricing (no surprises), easy signing process, limited-time offers, addressing objections proactively, mobile-friendly format, and a clear call-to-action.

Question 11

How do I integrate proposals with my CRM?

Accepted Answer

Most proposal tools integrate with popular CRMs. Proposals auto-log to deals, status syncs when signed. This creates an audit trail and triggers next steps automatically.

Question 12

Should I include terms and conditions in proposals?

Accepted Answer

Brief terms in the proposal, full T&Cs as attachment or link. Don't overwhelm with legalese upfront. Make sure key terms (payment, scope) are clear in the main document.

Question 13

How do I handle proposal revisions?

Accepted Answer

Version control is crucial. Most tools track changes. Communicate what changed when sending revisions. Keep proposal links consistent so history is preserved.

Question 14

What's the best proposal tool for startups?

Accepted Answer

PandaDoc: great balance of features and price. Proposify: beautiful templates. Qwilr: impressive interactive pages. Better Proposals: simple and affordable. Match to your deal complexity.

Question 15

How long should proposals be?

Accepted Answer

As short as possible while conveying value. One-pagers for simple deals. 3-5 pages for complex services. No one reads 20-page proposals. Ruthlessly cut fluff.

I need to send professional proposals and contracts quickly

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