Blog Post  Public Procurement FAQs: Your Guide to Vendor Success and Buyer Guidance

Preparation is key to navigating the complex and ever-changing landscape of public procurement. To ensure you have the critical information necessary for successful procurement activities, the WOSD News: Procurement Insights podcast collaborated with staff from the Operational Services Division’s (OSD) Help Desk to answer the most frequently asked questions received from Statewide Contract Vendors and Public Buyers. 

In this podcast episode, Help Desk Specialist James Reid answered a question received from many Buyers: How do I increase my chance of receiving high-quality responses from Vendors when purchasing from a Statewide Contract?  

“When posting in COMMBUYS, ensure your bid is posted properly by selecting the ‘Allow Electronic Quote’ checkbox, and including the letters “RFQ” in the bid description,” said James. "Following these tips will put you on the right track to receiving high-quality bid responses from Vendors.” 

Best Value is another frequently asked topic expressed by Vendors and Buyers, who often wonder what it is and how it impacts the procurement process. OSD Training Supervisor Erin Powers joined the podcast to explain the concept and outline how Buyers may conduct Best Value Procurements. Erin explained, “With the Best Value standard established in the Massachusetts procurement regulation, procurement professionals may consider what has value in the particular instance. Sure, price is an important indicator of value, but other things like product durability, timeliness, and delivery also may be considered, along with desired policy initiatives like small business involvement, supplier diversity, and the environmental impact of our purchasing choices. For Statewide Contracts, the goal is being able to define value as best fits the situation.” 

WOSD News host Layla Palmer dives into additional FAQs throughout the episode, providing listeners with guidance on becoming an awarded Statewide Contract Vendor, purchasing for Municipalities, and accessing resources for small and diverse businesses interested in working with the state. 

Learn more by tuning in to Public Procurement FAQs: Your Guide to Vendor Success and Buyer Guidance. For additional support, contact the OSD Help Desk at (888) 627-8283 or OSDHelpDesk@mass.gov.