Q: Who can bid on a state contract?
A: Anyone. If you have a product or service that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania needs, you can bid on that contract.
|
Q: How do I bid on a contract?
A: First you must apply to the Department of General Services (DGS) (www.dgs.state.pa.us). They will put your business on the bidder’s list that pertains to your services. When a need for those services arises, you will be sent an “Invitation To Bid” from the Department of General Services, which will include the time frame and specifications necessary to make a proper bid.
|
Q: Are there different types of contracts?
A: Yes. Two common contracts are Professional Service Contracts and Commodities Contracts. Please contact us for further information.
|
Q: What is an Invitation for Bid (IFB) and a Request For Proposal (RFP)?
A: An IFB is used to obtain services when the scope of services can be satisfactorily described and the price is the only factor to be considered in the award.
An RFP provides contractors with information needed to prepare proposals that meet the state agency’s needs. An RFP is used when cost is not the only factor in evaluating proposals to secure consultant, professional, or other services. The RFP requires detailed information concerning understanding of the problem, services to be provided, and the approach to be used in solving the problem
|
Q: How do I obtain a list of upcoming RFPs?
A: You can obtain a list of upcoming RFPs by requesting to be placed on DGS’s solicitation mailing list of the purchasing agency(s). Upcoming RFPs are also published in local newspapers and the Pennsylvania Bulletin
(www.pabulletin.com).
|
Q: Are contracts always awarded to the lowest bidder?
A: No. Under the IFB procedure, once it is determined that the low bid meets the contract specifications and the bidder is responsible, the award must be made. But, under the RFP procedure, competing services may be compared and evaluated on certain criteria other than price. The award is made to the responsible contractor whose proposal is most advantageous to the agency. Also, discussion is permitted after proposals have been opened to allow clarification.
|
Q: How can Treasury help me compete for state contracts?
A: Treasury representatives can supply you with copies of already awarded contracts, similar to the one you plan to bid on. We will also share with you information about winning bids and contract specification.
|
Q: How do I find out news on purchasing and other related information?
A: You can find purchasing news and other information on “Procurement” page of The DGS Web site at www.dgs.state.pa.us/procurement/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=119745&procurementNav=|
|