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 is the Compliance Matrix Generated?
There are two ways to generate a Compliance Matrix:
Option 1: Automatically via Document Package (Recommended)
If you started with Document Package, your Compliance Matrix may already be generated as part of the workflow.
In this case:
Review the extracted requirements
Validate accuracy and completeness
Adjust categorization and actions as needed
Option 2: Generate Manually in the Compliance Matrix Tab
If you did not use Document Package, you can generate the matrix directly within this tab.
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.