What are the steps to develop a software consulting proposal?

Using this source, I want to add a few ground level notes and not the theoretical points available almost everywhere. Yes, It is important to understand the client's needs. However, who can understand client's needs properly. I have seen companies making mistakes of letting a new comer understand client's needs and move forward with BA or through the next chain of process. It indeed is important to understand the client's needs which is the root of starting the proposal, however, it is also important that an experienced person along with a newcomer or someone who is yet to gain full knowledge takes the command to avoid problems regarding understanding of the needs and to be on the same page.

Establishing a well-defined scope helps manage expectations, prevent scope creep, and ensures alignment between your team and the client regarding goals and to establish one, understanding of the need should have been done well. Since we have limited characters here. I can mention the titles used in a general SOW. Goals: Clear client objectives. Deliverables: Breakdown into phases with deadlines. Tasks/Resources: Who does what, what’s needed. Roles: Define responsibilities. Assumptions/Dependencies: Be transparent. Risks/Mitigation: Plan for uncertainties. Quality: Standards and measures. Clarity: Clear, measurable, and realistic. Collaboration: Feedback and involvement. Flexibility: Open to changes, but managed to prevent scope creep.

There are many other things which should be included. Consider detailing the communication plan, emphasizing how information will flow between teams throughout project. Highlight post-implementation support, showcasing ongoing assistance once the project concludes. Discuss the client's role in the process, emphasizing their involvement for smoother collaboration. Touch upon change management strategies, addressing how evolving needs will be handled. Factor in scalability considerations for potential future growth and expansion. Include plans for training and knowledge transfer to ensure a smooth transition. Lastly, outline feedback mechanisms, explaining how feedback will be gathered and utilized to enhance the project's success.