For more information on agency selection processes, please consult the Agency Selection Guide, which will provide you with guidance through all of the steps involved in selecting an agency in the best possible manner.
The agency selection process is becoming increasingly complex and expensive for both agencies and advertisers. Therefore, A2C has decided that it would be relevant to share with the industry the best practices that have been proven and used around the world. This Guide is designed to optimize the selection process in order to help build a business partnership that is conducive to the success of advertisers and the financial health of A2C’s member agencies.
FermerNo. You can select an agency on the basis of recommendations, its reputation or through one-on-one meetings. However, some companies are subject to organisational constraints that require the launch of a request for proposals when selecting an agency.
FermerYes. The proposed process applies to all types of agencies.
FermerYes and no. It is recommended to launch a request for proposals only for large-budget and long-term scope projects. For any other smaller mandates, it is preferable to use a simplified selection process based on a preliminary search of the required expertise, and then hold one-on-one meetings.
FermerYes and no. It is recommended to launch a request for proposals only for large-budget and long-term scope projects. For any other smaller mandates, it is preferable to use a simplified selection process based on a preliminary search of the required expertise, and then hold one-on-one meetings.
FermerThe recommendation for an invitational competitive process is 3 agencies in a single-step process or between 7 and 8 agencies in a two-step process. It is also possible to launch a request for proposals to all of A2C’s member agencies or via websites designed for this purpose, such as SEAO or MERX.
Keep in mind that on the one hand, participation to any selection process requires a substantial investment for agencies. On the other hand, you will also have to invest a lot of time and energy to assess proposals that will be submitted to you.
FermerBesides the time you will spend on preparing the request for proposals, it takes about two to three months to complete a two-step process. The process time can be shortened if you are to reconsider your expectations and the selected process.
FermerIf your selection process complies with the recommendations included in the Agency Selection Guide, and excludes any speculative work–that is any strategic or creative work for which the agency would be normally paid–the answer is no.
FermerYes. A2C can support you in this endeavour and answer your questions regarding the implementation of an optimum selection process. It is also possible to hire a neutral external consultant who will be able to assist and accompany you in the development of the selection process.
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