Competition is the cornerstone around which public contracting is built. Carteret Community College’s purchasing program is based on sound competitive purchasing procedures. Where competition is not sought, or obtained for purchases over the appropriate benchmark, the reason must be valid and must be documented as part of the public procurement file.
The importance of seeking competition exists at all levels of expenditure, not just in those solicitations above benchmarks. Below the benchmarks, the competitive element is just as important and can be sought through some form of competitive solicitation. All agency purchasing personnel must maintain an awareness of the need for and value of competition in every procurement action.
Fostering competition is an attitude more than a procedure or mechanism. It is reflected in the way specifications are written, in searching for new sources of supply, in attempting to make procurement documents simple and inviting, and in the everyday courteousness shown to prospective suppliers and contractors.
Price is not the only consideration in seeking competition. Other factors include terms and conditions, delivery schedules and lead times, types or degrees of service required, inspection and testing procedures, transportation and delivery costs, warranties and guarantees required, etc.