Years ago, the federal government had a lot of explaining to do when a whistleblower revealed that it cost $500 for a government agency to purchase a hammer that could have been bought for a few bucks at a hardware store. The blame was placed on bureaucratic layers that allowed such an absurd price point to exist.
While not on such a gross margin, North Carolina procurement officials face similar challenges in cutting red tape to reach the best and most cost-effective deals. Especially in an uncertain economic climate, the procurement system currently in place allows for too many variables to help stretch limited budget resources. But that is all about to change.
As part of Gov. Bev Perdue’s sweeping proposal to restructure state government, the N.C. Department of Administration today launched a new website for Procurement Transformation, the initiative designed to streamline procurement functions across state government by increasing efficiencies, leveraging buying power and reducing overlap of key functions. The effort is projected to generate savings of about $30 million.
Citizens and partners can learn more about Procurement Transformation by reading the fact sheet and FAQs found on the website. General inquiries can be emailed to procurement@doa.nc.gov. They also may opt to join the Procurement Transformation Listserv, which will update members as appropriate.