The Way Forward News

Issue #4, October 2006

Better purchasing:
How you can help the Government of Canada save

Prepare a Statement of Work

Define the work to be done or the products to be acquired in clear and concise terms. If a requirement cannot be clearly defined, indicate the objectives and performance criteria to be met. Look for opportunities where you can cooperate with others who have similar requirements. Also, be sure to order standard items whenever possible.

Use Available Tools

Know what procurement tools are available to you and be sure to use them. Some tools that exist are standing offers, the Standing Offer Index (SOI), MERX, plain language documents, the Vendor Performance Policy, and the Shared Travel Services Initiative, as well as tools available from your department. Also look for updates to current tools like the SOI, and the introduction of new tools like the Government of Canada Marketplace (GoCM).

Know the Standing Offer Process

If you are buying something from the core supply categories, and if PWGSC has a standing offer that meets your needs, then you are to use the standing offer. If there is not a standing offer that meets your needs, you should follow the laws, regulations and policies that normally govern your departmental procurement process.

If you have questions, call the Acquisitions Help Desk at 1-866-664-6609.

For a complete list of the core supply categories, visit: http://www.pwgsc.gc.ca/transformation/proc/text/overview-e.html#supply.

For more information on government purchasing tools visit:
http://www.pwgsc.gc.ca/acquisitions/text/e-tools-e.html.