14.1 Competitive procurement methods
Fair and open competition is the core concept behind the Virginia Public Procurement Act, 2.2-4300(C). Choosing the correct procurement method enables the procuring agency to achieve maximum fair and open competition. The procurement methods available that utilize competition are quick quotes, competitive sealed bidding, competitive negotiation and auctions. The dollar amount, overall complexity and level of risk associated with the IT procurement are factors to consider in choosing the appropriate competitive procurement method. The procurement lead/sourcing specialist or procurement project team (see manual Chapter 13, Procurement Project Team, for more information, Chapter 13 should define the business need and select which procurement method would be most appropriate for the type of IT product, solution or service desired. An overview of when to use the respective competitive procurement methods is outlined in the following table. Remember that a VITA statewide contract shall be used first, if available, for any procurement method listed in this table (See section 14.0).
Method |
When to use |
Where to learn more |
Quick quotes |
|
eVA, Chapter 7 |
Competitive sealed bidding: Invitation For Bid (IFB) |
|
Chapter 22 |
Competitive sealed bidding: IFB or two-step IFBs |
|
Chapter 23 |
Competitive negotiation: RFP |
|
Chapter 24 |
Public and online auctions |
|
Chapter 19 |
Reverse auctions |
|
Chapter 19 |
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