Procurement: NIGP seeking comments on cooperative accreditation initiative

The NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement is developing the NIGP Accredited Cooperative program that will be launched in early 2015. The NIGP welcomes comments from NIGP members and others on the assessment criteria that will serve as the basis for accreditation. The comment period continues through December 23, 2014.

As currently defined, there are 114 criteria across three broad areas of review:  Cooperative Program; Procurement Process; and Contracting Agency Assessment.  Of the 114 criteria, 68 have been identified as “mandatory” requirements that must be demonstrated by a cooperative program to qualify for the full review process and earn accreditation. 


The Herndon, Va.-based NIGP asks that prospective commenters consider the following
as they review the criteria:
—   Do these criteria meet or exceed the level of review your agency would conduct (or like to if it had the time) when considering “piggybacking” options?
—    Would an accreditation based on these criteria provide a feeling of confidence in the use of contracts available from an accredited program?
—    Are there additional criteria that would support your agency’s requirements for use of a cooperative piggybacking solution?

The NIGP also asks that cooperative program and supplier representatives offer their comments. The NIGP asks for feedback on whether any of the proposed criteria is inappropriate or unduly onerous.

Interested parties can offer their comments in several ways, including directly via e-mail. E-mail your comments and questions by December 23 to [email protected].

Interested parties can enter their comments into the criteria initiative’s Excel file and e-mailed, or as observations shared via NIGP’s “Feedback” or “PurchIssues” Nsite community.


Go here for more information on the NIGP Accredited Cooperative Program. An Accreditation Criteria Document can be downloaded at this site.

_____________

_{To get connected and stay up-to-date with similar content from American City & County:
Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Watch us on Youtube}