Competency Module: Sourcing and Contracting Methods

Description

Sourcing and contracting methods are the heart of the procurement function, empowering public procurement professionals with the information they need to perform their essential job functions. The ability to not just identify the appropriate source selection method but also to recognize the advantages and disadvantages of each is critical for the success of the procurement professional.

Objectives

In order to successfully earn a digital badge, learners must:

• Identify the appropriate source selection method and describe the components required to successfully meet the needs of the end user.
• Identify advantages and disadvantages of contracting for commodities.

Intended Audience

Designed to promote applicable experiences for practitioners working in the public sector, NIGP’s Pathways competency courses empower learners with the ready-to-implement actions they need to succeed in public procurement. This introductory course is designed for:

• Public procurement and central warehouse professionals who serve as assistants, coordinators, buyers, or equivalent functions within their respective entities.
• Non-procurement managers and supervisors who are responsible for either the procurement function or staff who provide procurement functions under delegated authority.
• Professionals who are employed by governing entities and special authorities (such as K-12 and higher education, publicly-owned utilities, transportation providers, and other publicly-funded or created organizations) that either serve within or manage the procurement function.
• Suppliers or representatives of suppliers seeking to understand the public procurement function from a holistic level, including the policies, standards, and procedures by which public entities must function.