What should agencies check first for procurement options?

Agencies should first check statewide term contracts when considering procurement options because these contracts are pre-negotiated agreements established by the state to facilitate the purchasing process. They are designed to provide agencies access to goods and services at pre-set terms and pricing, which can lead to significant cost savings and efficiencies. Statewide term contracts streamline procurement, as they eliminate the need for individual agencies to conduct their own bidding processes for commonly purchased items. Understanding and utilizing these contracts allows agencies to comply with legal procurement standards while also ensuring they are making the most cost-effective purchasing decisions.

In contrast, federal procurement guidelines, vendor offers, and annual procurement reviews have their importance but are not typically the immediate priority when an agency first approaches procurement. Federal guidelines often apply only in certain contexts and may not be relevant for all state procurement activities. Vendor offers can vary widely, and agencies generally prefer leveraging established contracts to ensure compliance and efficiency. Annual procurement reviews are useful for assessing past performance and planning future needs but do not directly inform immediate procurement decisions. Thus, statewide term contracts serve as the foundational tool for agencies to begin their procurement process effectively.