What must be submitted for Stage 3 to start?

• A. Final payment
• B. Demos completed
• C. RFP submitted for review
• D. Proposal generated

Answer: (C)

Starting Stage 3 requires a formal trigger that moves the process forward in procurement. Submitting the RFP for review is the best choice because an RFP (Request for Proposal) clearly communicates what is needed, the constraints, and how proposals will be evaluated. When it’s submitted for review, stakeholders confirm alignment with goals, budget, and timeline and grant the official sign-off to proceed. This creates a documented baseline for Stage 3 activities like reviewing proposals and selecting vendors.

Final payment happens later in the process, demos are typically part of evaluating or validating proposals, and a proposal generated is usually an internal draft rather than the formal document that initiates Stage 3.