Procurement for $3-10k

[Jerian Lind]

In regards to the new regulation that all purchases between $3 and 10k must have multiple price comparisons, what is the reason behind this?  How does it reduce fraud, waste, and abuse and streamline the process?  

In addition, will having a UWide contract with these vendors eliminate the need for multiple price comparisons?

[Nicole Pilman]

Quite simply, the reason for the "new" threshold is political.  It is a good way for politicians to show their constituents that they are holding those spending taxpayer funds accountable.  It's unclear how this reduces waste and streamlines the process, but it should ensure a reduction in fraud and abuse.  

Also, UWide contracts will eliminate the need to find multiple price comparisons.

We have to implement this change as of July 1, 2016 so we will spend the remaining months determining how to implement these changes.

[shao...@gmail.com]

Is there a job aid or standard procedure/policy available for the 3K-10K multiple price comparison?

[Nicole Pilman]

OMB has given another extension so this requirement does not have to go into affect for the University of Minnesota until July 1, 2017.  Purchasing Services is aware of the timeline for the implementation and will provide details in the form of a policy, procedure, job aid, etc. prior to the implementation date.