Overview

In almost any organization you will frequently be involved in proposal work. These intensive short projects can be real opportunities for the group and for you. They are among the most interesting and stimulating activities of engineering. The relationship of a proposal to a long engineering project is about that of a raid to a set military engagement.

A proposal is usually pretty hectic. You work all night on some proposals. Engineers are pulled temporarily from other jobs to fill in. Information is scarce to nonexistent, but there is much room for judgment and imagination. Like a battle, it brings out the best in most participants, spotlighting those who can think on their feet.

Can you keep a sense of direction and purpose in the midst of confusion? Frequently during proposal work some young engineer previously buried in a large organization will step to the front with real contributions and leadership, never to lapse into obscurity again.

Proposals are, of course, offers to do business along certain lines. As in most other human activity, they are a prominent part of engineering. If you have a good idea to improve efficiency in your organization and take it to your boss to sell your boss on letting you try it, that's a simple form of proposal. If the Air Force announces that it will receive technical ideas and bids to accomplish certain engineering work, your company's response to this invitation is a proposal. Proposals can be written or oral and often...