After 20 years, the Government of British Columbia’s procurement portal is in need of an overhaul.
A recently posted negotiated request for proposals (NRFP) is looking for submissions to update the BC Bid system with a focus on improved transparency and better access so more companies, especially small- and medium-sized ones, can do business with government, announced Minister of Citizens’ Services Jinny Sims.
“BC Bid is 20 years old; it’s time to bring it up to date. By making the system more nimble and user friendly, we are making it easier for all companies, especially small- and medium-sized ones, to do business with government,” said Sims. “This is the first step in overhauling the government’s approach to procurement and will help ensure that companies from every region of British Columbia have the opportunity to compete for the Province’s business.”
The B.C. government has relied on the current online process since 1996 and is seeking to implement innovative ways to engage and work with B.C. contractors and companies. The new BC Bid will ensure ease of access and improved transparency in the procurement process.
Companies able to provide a new, automated procurement application with standardized processes are encouraged to participate. The aims are to:
- Offer a modern user experience on a reliable application;
- Save time, reduce complexity and increase the number of vendors competing for and ultimately winning B.C. government contracts; and
- Make it easier for companies to do business with the B.C. government.
Bids can be submitted today through Jan. 26, 2018. After the process closes, the government will take time to thoroughly review the applicants and assess the best fit for British Columbians.
Approximately 8,800 opportunities were posted to BC Bid in the 2016-17 fiscal year. Current users of BC Bid include all ministries, over 600 broader public-sector organizations, 6,300 registered suppliers, tens of thousands of vendors and the public.
The new BC Bid application is expected to be up and running in 2019. Learn More at www.bcbid.ca.
