Before purchasing from the open market, what should agencies consult?

Consulting statewide term contracts before purchasing from the open market is crucial for agencies because these contracts are pre-negotiated terms that provide standardized pricing, terms, and conditions that have been established by the state to ensure cost-effectiveness and compliance with legal requirements. By utilizing statewide term contracts, agencies can save time and resources, as these contracts often cover commonly used products and services, streamlining the procurement process.

Statewide contracts are put in place to enhance efficiency and maximize the taxpayer's dollar by leveraging bulk purchasing power. This establishes a framework that guarantees quality and service from suppliers, which enhances the reliability of procurement efforts. Agencies are encouraged to rely on these contracts before turning to the open market, ensuring adherence to state procurement regulations and potentially avoiding unnecessary spending.

In contrast, while vendor performance history, federal government contracts, and local supplier agreements may be useful references, they do not offer the same level of comprehensive guidelines and negotiated terms that statewide term contracts provide, making this choice the most advantageous for agencies looking to make informed and efficient purchasing decisions.