It’s good to get out of the office now and then. Discovering that a Purchase & Contract process can be made better is good for everyone involved.
This was reconfirmed during a recent presentation at the “Creative Business Diversity in the 21st Century & Beyond” workshop in Charlotte. The event provided a platform such that vendors could ask questions and learn more about the unique procurement practices of the agencies involved, including the state’s Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses.
While many of these hard-working vendors provide the goods and serves the state seeks, some were unclear how to become a bigger part of our operation. We want them to succeed, and we are taking steps to help them.
Many creative ideas were discussed to increase such opportunities. One we promoted, along with colleague Grover Burthey of the HUB Office, was creating partnerships so small and minority-owned business owners could unite and compete for larger contracts. That sort of thing is a classic win-win for everyone.
But a clear take-away was that, while we strive to make our process simple, we need to do more to learn the language of the procurement professionals we work with. We need to be responsive to their concerns to ensure that our solicitations are non-restrictive and fosters competition, resulting in cost effective contracts..
We will be increasing education and outreach opportunities for vendors in the near future, with the goal of bringing even more players into the market. It’s a good idea that also makes good business sense. The more entities we engage in competition for a state bid, the better deal we get for our taxpayers.