How to bid on Student Information System (SIS) Software for the University of Washington

What the University of Washington is buying

The University of Washington is conducting market research for Student Information System (SIS) software solutions. They are gathering information from vendors about product capabilities, technical architecture, licensing models, and implementation partners. This is a Request for Information (RFI), meaning the university is exploring options and understanding the market, not immediately purchasing a system.

Key dates and deadlines

The deadline to submit your response is October 16, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline, and responses must be submitted before this time. Late submissions are typically not considered for RFIs.

Who this opportunity suits

This RFI is suitable for software vendors specializing in Student Information Systems. Firms with established products that can demonstrate comprehensive capabilities, flexible technical architectures, clear licensing models, and robust implementation partner ecosystems are encouraged to respond. The opportunity falls under the technology category.

This is an excellent opportunity for SIS software providers to showcase their solutions and inform the University of Washington's future planning, even though it is not a direct procurement.

How to respond to this RFI

To access the RFI, you need to go to Washington State's WEBS Bid Calendar. You can find this specific bid by using the solicitation reference number 1255311. While viewing the RFI documents is public, downloading the full documents and submitting your response requires a free WEBS vendor sign-in. Make sure to register and complete your submission before the deadline.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

When responding to an RFI, focus on providing clear, concise, and comprehensive information about your product. Highlight your system's unique strengths, scalability, and how it addresses common challenges faced by large educational institutions. Clearly outline your technical architecture and any integration capabilities.

Pay close attention to the requested information regarding licensing models and implementation partners. Provide detailed explanations of your typical licensing structures and how you support successful deployments, either directly or through partners. Ensure all requested sections are addressed thoroughly to give the agency a complete picture of your offering.