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Compliance Matrix (AI-Powered)

The Compliance Matrix in NextStage helps you automatically extract, organize, and track proposal requirements from your RFP and PWS documents. This feature reduces manual effort and ensures your team does not miss critical requirements.

Written by Matt Miller
Updated over 2 weeks ago

What is the Compliance Matrix?

The Compliance Matrix is a centralized workspace where all solicitation requirements are captured, categorized, and tracked through the proposal lifecycle.

With AI-powered generation, NextStage can:

  • Extract requirements directly from RFP and PWS documents

  • Identify key instructions, SOW elements, and evaluation criteria

  • Organize requirements into a structured, actionable matrix

How to Generate a Compliance Matrix with AI

Step 1: Navigate to Compliance Matrix

Go to the Compliance Matrix tab within your opportunity.

You will see the option to generate a matrix using AI.

Step 2: Upload RFP Documents

Click Generate with AI to open the upload window.

  • Add your RFP, PWS, or supporting documents

  • Ensure documents include requirements and evaluation criteria

  • If documents are stored in SharePoint, sign in when prompted

Step 3: Generate the Matrix

Once documents are uploaded:

  • Click Generate Compliance Matrix

  • NextStage AI will analyze the documents and extract requirements

Understanding the Compliance Matrix

After generation, your matrix will populate with structured requirement entries.

Key Fields Explained

  • ID
    Unique identifier for each requirement (for tracking and reference)

  • Requirement
    Extracted text from the solicitation

  • Type
    Categorizes the requirement (e.g., SOW, Instruction, Evaluation)

  • Action
    Indicates how the requirement should be handled
    Example: Address in Proposal, Price It, Review Only

  • Eval Requirements
    Flags evaluation-related criteria when applicable

  • Section
    Links back to the original document section

Managing Your Compliance Matrix

You can refine and manage your matrix using the available tools:

Filtering and Search

  • Use the search bar to locate specific requirements

  • Filter by Type, Action, or Document Source

  • Reset filters as needed

Editing Requirements

  • Update requirement text or categorization

  • Adjust actions based on your proposal strategy

Adding Requirements

  • Click Add Requirement to manually include items not captured by AI

Exporting

  • Export the matrix to Excel using Export XLSX for offline use or reviews

Best Practices

  • Upload clean, final versions of your RFP and PWS documents

  • Include all relevant sections (Instructions, SOW, Evaluation Criteria)

  • Review and validate AI-extracted requirements before starting proposal development

  • Use the Action field to drive assignments and workflow

Common Questions

Why is the Generate button disabled?
Ensure at least one RFP document is uploaded and accessible. If using SharePoint, confirm you are signed in.

Can I edit the matrix after generation?
Yes. All fields can be updated to align with your capture and proposal strategy.

What if something is missing?
You can manually add requirements at any time using the Add Requirement button.

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