We are going through a benefits broker RFP and have received written responses. What have you done for finalist rounds - analysis/recommendations; meeting the prospective teams, scenario type questions? This is my first time doing an RFP of this scale and thanks in advance for input and ideas.

Some ideas.  Ensure you have shared your business strategy such that it is aligned with the partnership.  Questions to consider:

1. Understanding of Company and Employee Needs:
   - Can you provide examples of how you tailor benefits offerings to meet the diverse needs and preferences of our employees?
   - How do you ensure that the benefits packages proposed align with our company's values and culture?

2. Market Trends and Insights:
   - How do you stay abreast of evolving trends and changes in the benefits landscape?
   - Can you share recent examples of how you've adapted benefits strategies in response to emerging market trends?

3. Employee Experience and Engagement:
   - What strategies do you employ to enhance employee engagement with their benefits?
   - How do you measure the effectiveness of benefits communication and engagement initiatives?

4. Carrier Management and Accountability:
   - How do you evaluate and select insurance carriers to ensure they meet our standards for service quality and cost-effectiveness?
   - Can you describe your process for holding carriers accountable for performance, including claims processing, customer service, and network adequacy?

5. Audit and Compliance Measures:
   - What auditing processes do you have in place to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and contractual obligations?
   - How do you address discrepancies or issues identified during audits?

6. Additional Support and Partnership Approach:
   - Beyond brokerage services, what additional support do you offer to enhance our benefits program?
   - How do you envision the broker-client relationship evolving into a strategic partnership over time?

7. Technology and Data Analytics:
   - What technology platforms do you utilize for benefits administration and data analytics?
   - How do you leverage data insights to inform benefits decision-making and drive cost containment strategies?

8. Employee Education and Communication:
   - How do you approach benefits education and communication to ensure employees understand their options and make informed decisions?
   - Can you provide examples of successful communication campaigns you've implemented for other clients?

9. Cost Management and Budgeting:
   - What strategies do you employ to help manage costs while still offering competitive benefits?
   - How do you assist with budgeting and forecasting for our benefits program?

10. Client References and Success Stories:
    - Can you provide references from clients with similar needs and challenges?
    - Do you have any case studies or success stories that demonstrate your ability to deliver value-added solutions and superior client service?

I hope this helps.  

Hi,  This is a difficult task because I have learned over the years that not all brokers do all things for you.  I was working with an excellent broker/consultant until a new director came on board and wanted to make a change.  I prepared a comparison sheet outlining current support, such as open enrollment, wrap document prep, HIPAA-compliant resources, broker fees, 5500 prep, eligibility/enrollment assistance, and so much more since I was a "team" of one.  Needless to say,  we stayed with the current broker.  That sheet really helped showcase what was being done behind the scenes.  And all at no cost to the employer.  They should have established relationships within the healthcare industry and be prepared to negotiate with vendors on your behalf.  This was at my last job; my current broker is just as great.  I would love to recommend either one to you!  Best of luck to you.