Dictionary of Procurement Terms

A bidder determined by the purchasing organization to meet the minimum standards of business competence, reputation, financial ability, and product quality for placement on the bidders list. See also: Responsible Bidder/Proposer/Offeror.

A list of products identified by manufacturers’ names and model numbers that are the only items that meet the minimum specifications as determined by the using entity. These products are used when quality is such a critical factor and testing so lengthy or expensive that the entity wants to stay with proven products.

Pertaining to or concerning quality aspects. This measurement tends to be more subjective in nature and determines suitability or effectiveness. For example: While the navyblue color of this week’s shipment of motors is slightly lighter in color, it will not affect its performance and therefore this shipment is still acceptable from a qualitative point of view.

1. In absolute terms, quality is a function of excellence, intrinsic value, or grade, as determined over time by society in general or by designated bodies in specialized fields. 2. The composite of all attributes or characteristics, including performance, that satisfy a user’s needs. 3. Conformance with the stated requirements.

1. Assurance that quality performance criteria contained within the contract is provided during contract delivery. 2. A contract administration process that assures technical performance that conforms to the quality performance criteria. 3. Specific to technology, a planned and systematic pattern of all actions necessary to provide adequate confidence that the product optimally fulfills customers’ expectations. When a new technology product is introduced, it may involve an alpha and beta testing. Faults are identified and fixed before the product is released commercially. See also: Monitoring.

A small cross-functional group of employees whose mission is to validate and improve processes, procedures, or policies, typically through planning, observation, and inspection.