Technology Acquisition Services FAQs
The most common questions Technology Brokering Services (TAS) consultants hear
from customers. Still have questions? Contact your consultant;
they're happy to help.
Are TAS contracts/agreements statewide Master Contracts?
Although similar, TAS contracts/agreements ARE NOT STATEWIDE MASTER CONTRACTS.
Because of certain record-keeping and other requirements orders for contract
products are placed through TAS
consultants rather than directly with the vendor. This ensures the
greatest possible discount.
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Does TAS publish a price list?
We have some competitively acquired contracts in place and publish their
price lists on the TechMall. For non-contract products we perform the
bidding process for our customers to obtain the best pricing.
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Why should I use TAS?
Here are some reasons agencies/organizations within the state choose TAS for
their IT acquisitions:
-
Save staff time — our consultants are experts in the field of technology
acquisitions. It would be difficult for each customer to employ someone in this
capacity
-
Save money — we leverage the buying power of all the customers we partner with
realizing savings individual customers would not likely be able to duplicate
-
One source for all IT purchasing — whether it's consultation, acquisition,
managing vendors, facilitating warranty repairs, or keeping comprehensive
acquisition records
-
See Who are we for more information on the
benefits of using TAS
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Who do I contact for status/where is my order?
Kate Smith is the contact for order status. Submit your request for
order status using our online form or phone Kate at 360-725-4213.
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Do I get a discount if I buy in quantity?
Yes. Each order benefits from the consolidation of customer orders. We take
advantage of economies of scale that individual agencies/organizations can't
normally achieve on their own. If quantities are sufficient to impact a
purchase even more than normal our experienced buyers will negotiate the best
possible price for you.
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When do I get my bill?
We consolidate all of your orders and bill monthly. Your bill will arrive
shortly after the first of each month.
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Does a TAS quote satisfy my competitive bidding requirements?
If you are doing the acquisition yourself the answer is no. If TAS does the
acquisition, ABSOLUTELY!
TAS performs the bidding process so that you don't have to. All products are
competitively acquired in accordance with the state's Planning for IT
Investments: IT Investment Policy (Acquisition Policy) and IT Investment
Standards (Acquisition Standards). State agencies may obtain information
related to acquisition planning and policy by from
DIS Management and Oversight of Strategic Technologies or by contacting
your
Technology Management Consultant.
Agencies/organizations who do their own acquisition cannot use a DIS/TAS quote
to fulfill competitive bidding requirements. Local government organizations may
be subject to different acquisition policies and procedures.
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What is your return policy?
Our return policy is determined by the vendors and may change. Generally you can
return unopened products within 15 days from our receipt of the product
(excluding special order items and TechMall web specials). Some vendors may
require a restocking fee. TAS will work to mitigate as many issues as possible.
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Do you lease products?
We have a leasing
program for desktops and laptops for state agencies only. If you are
interested in leasing, contact your TAS Consultant.
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Can state employees use TAS for personal purchases?
No. We are a state agency providing a service solely to other
agencies/organizations.
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Can we get evaluation products?
Yes, many manufacturers have evaluation programs. TAS works with local vendors
and manufacturers to get evaluation products for your review. Occasionally we
have demo products on loan and we'd be happy to assist in your product
evaluation.
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