12 Miss. Code. R. 9-6.2
An RFP is issued to solicit proposals. Use of this procurement method communicates to potential respondents that the Agency is seeking various ideas and approaches as to how to provide the required personal or professional services. The aim of an RFP is to obtain the best value for the Agency such that the most qualified vendor is providing the most effective and creative solution to meet the Agency's need at a competitive price.
An RFQ is issued to solicit qualifications. Use of this procurement method communicates to potential respondents that the Agency is seeking the vendor with the most relevant experience, credentials, and other qualifications to provide the required personal and professional services. Generally, a unique or creative approach to the work is not needed or is less important to the Agency than the vendor's qualifications. The aim of an RFQ is to obtain the best value for the Agency such that the vendor who is most qualified is retained to meet the Agency's need at a competitive price.
Agencies have the sole discretion to choose which procurement method best meets their needs. While use of an RFP or RFQ generally communicates to the vendor community what the Agency deems most important, there is no regulatory or statutory requirement that an Agency choose one instead of the other. The regulatory and statutory requirements for conducting an RFP or RFQ are identical.
12 Miss. Code. R. 9-6.2