ART - ESSAY-EthicsOfPreferance 2010

The document discusses the ethical implications of preference programs in the public procurement process. These programs are designed to assist businesses that are perceived to be disadvantaged in the marketplace. However, the author argues that preference programs undermine the fairness and equal treatment of all vendors, as they create a market that is no longer fair to all interested parties. The author believes that the public procurement process should be rooted in fairness and provide a level playing field for all vendors. Preference programs can also put the preferred businesses at a disadvantage when competing for private contracts outside of government procurement. The author suggests that instead of preference programs, local agencies should focus on offering outreach and education to help vendors compete under the agency's rules. Establishing a preference program would send an ethical message that fairness can be upset in awarding contracts and that it is acceptable to overpay for services to assist a specific class of business. Overall, the author argues against the establishment of preference programs in the public procurement process.