Bid Information

Bid Limits

Up to $24,999 for goods and $49,999 for services: at least three quotations will be solicited at the discretion of the Purchasing Office or its authorized agents.

$25,000 for goods and above and $50,000 for services and above: at least three formal written quotation are required.

Bid Formats

The College uses several formats for soliciting bids. They include:

• Request for quotation (RFQ) - used to request pricing for goods or services that are clearly defined.
• Request for proposal (RFP) - used to request pricing for goods or services when all elements are not clearly defined. This format allows bidders to provide a customized response. Bid may include pricing, alternative solutions, implementation plans and installation time lines.
• Request for Information (RFI) - used to determine the viability of a concept. No pricing is submitted and no award is made.

Bid Procedures

All competitive bids will be solicited by the Purchasing Office or by its authorized agents pursuant to established procedures. The Purchasing office reserves the right to obtain competitive quotations regardless of the dollar value if it is in the college's best interest.

Strict adherence to all applicable federal laws, laws of the State of Ohio, college policies and sound business practices will be observed.

A purchase of goods, services, leases or rentals is authorized by the college when a purchase order is issued by the Purchasing office.

Bid Evaluation and Award

Awards for goods and services are made to the supplier providing the lowest responsible and responsive quotation. The college reserves the right to reject any or all quotations, or portions thereof, and is not bound to accept the lowest cost if it is not in the best interest of the college. In making an award, factors such as, but not limited to, the suppliers service capability, integrity, facilities, equipment, reputation, human and financial resources, as well as, past performance will be considered.

Buying Consortiums

Columbus State Community College is a member of several buying consortiums that competitively bid goods and services. Purchases made off State, Inter-University Council (IUC), General Services Administration (GSA), Educational & Institutional Cooperative (E&I) and Ohio State University contracts are exempt from competitive bidding.

Vendor Registration

New vendors are encouraged to complete a Vendor Registration Form. Completion of this form ensures that your company will be registered as a vendor with the college. It does not guarantee that your company will be contacted for purchases needing quote or bid.

Fax the vendor registration form to the Purchasing office at 614 287-2545.

Supplier Diversity

The college strongly supports having a diverse supplier base. Minority/disadvantaged vendors are encouraged to participate in the purchasing process. The college will give every reasonable opportunity for minority/disadvantaged vendors to submit bids and proposals for contracts as suppliers, contractors and consultants.