METRO NASHVILLE
we have learned how to use the tools and resources that we have available to us in a more effective way .”
One major advantage is a transformation of the bidding process . Where once prospective suppliers were invited in to pitch and bid on a contract , those meetings are now held digitally on WebEx . It shifts the balance in favor of organizations of all sizes , Hernandez Lane says , who adds that the smaller businesses are often the most technologically savvy .
“ People can log in , hear all of the information that ' s there , ask questions , we have a record of their attendance . All of those things are beneficial to us because it increases competition and the likelihood that we receive the best product or service at the best price . That ’ s certainly a net gain for the government , and it benefits suppliers because more of them have an opportunity to engage with us .
“ We position ourselves to make sure that our suppliers understand what we ' re seeking and how to do business with us . That was usually a session in person at 10am during the day , when many of these smaller businesses who don ' t have the privilege of a business development officer . They have to make a decision : do I go and learn something that could translate into more business opportunities with the city , or do I complete this project for an existing contract ? Whereas now we have those sessions electronically , and it gives them the opportunity to be there , to ask questions , to learn , to understand without necessarily having to take away as much time .”
Beyond routine sourcing functions , Hernandez Lane ’ s team also acts as a response force . Vital to the government ’ s pandemic efforts , they are well versed in supporting departments during emergency
132 June 2021