III-E: Competitive Sourcing and Partnerships

Conduct public-private competitions, either in a standardized or streamlined process, for commercial activities currently performed by Federal employees.

Other Information:

The RRB is committed to meeting statutory and regulatory requirements for identifying commercial activities and conducting such competitions, as described in Chapter V, Objective II-C. For example, we will comply with the requirements of the Federal Activities Inventory Reform Act of 1998 and meet all procedural guidelines for competitive sourcing evaluations. In addition to our competitive sourcing activities, we will also be taking the following actions related to procurement and partnerships: Ensure that the RRB consistently pays the lowest price for products and services commensurate with quality, service, delivery and reliability. This strategy will result in a first-class acquisition system based upon regulations that apply to all Federal agencies. This system will make maximum use of competitive procedures, require that awarded contracts include past performance as an evaluation factor, and ensure that contractors meet all delivery requirements and schedules for goods or services. To achieve this, the RRB will: Pay the lowest price for products/services commensurate with quality, service, delivery, and reliability. We will promote full and open competition to the maximum extent practical when procuring products and services for the agency, and award purchase orders and contracts only to responsible contractors. Closely manage solicitations and the resulting contracts. We will award contracts on time to ensure that the required product or service is delivered in time to meet agency requirements and ensure the delivery of quality products and services. We will use the simplified acquisition processes where appropriate, including procurement cards for smaller purchases. We will closely monitor products and service delivery schedules and take all necessary remedies to obtain products and services that satisfy agency requirements. Make use of strategic sourcing as a means of maximizing the value of funds spent on goods and services. In May 2005, OMB issued guidance that encouraged agencies to implement strategic sourcing. This is a collaborative and structured process for critically analyzing spending and making data-driven decisions on acquiring goods and services. While the RRB does not spend as much of its budget on commodities and services as larger agencies, we have identified items such as office supplies, paper, printer cartridges and photocopiers that lend themselves to such an approach. We will look for opportunities to obtain savings on these particular items, as well as attempt to identify other areas suitable for strategic sourcing techniques. Use outside sources and partnerships, when appropriate, to accomplish our mission. As a small agency, it is not always economically feasible to retain staff expertise in specialized areas or to perform all activities in-house. We will evaluate the use of outside resources and partnerships based on considerations such as cost and/or time savings, improved effectiveness, enhanced expertise and increased customer satisfaction. In keeping with this strategy, we will: Make use of advisory and assistance services when appropriate. Keep abreast of current trends and opportunities. Work with other agencies and organizations to meet mutual goals.

Indicator(s):

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