This course is funded by NASPO to be FREE for everyone.

Type: Self-paced, online

Course Description: 

This Procurement U online course is designed to guide public procurement professionals through many of the initial steps involved in planning for and acquiring information technology (IT). The course discusses key considerations for strategic sourcing, building a business case, establishing Readiness, and performing market research to develop IT specifications. The course also reviews different solicitation methods commonly used in IT procurements.

Suggested Audience: Public procurement professionals or other government employees seeking to gain an understanding of procurement planning strategies that require special consideration for IT products and services.

Goal(s):
To introduce public procurement officials to key considerations within IT procurement and to support early decision-making efforts in the procurement process.

Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course participants will be able to:
1. Compare the difference in processes that make IT procurements challenging and unique
2. Identify how strategic sourcing and market research play a role in creating a business case for IT procurement
3. Demonstrate how to create specifications for IT projects based on agency needs
4. Plan how to effectively navigate early decisions in IT procurement.
5. Decide which solicitation method is most applicable to the different types of IT projects.

Course Technology Requirements:

• Internet connection
• Support web browsers:
  • Recommended: Chrome, Firefox, Safari (latest versions)
  • Avoid: Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge
  • If prompted, accept all cookies and allow popups
• Access to Procurement U LMS
• Ability to play and listen to audio through computer speakers or headphones

Contact Hours: 2

IACET CEUs: 0.2

Course Syllabus