Exploratory Study on the Strategic Use of Information Technology in the Source Selection Decision-Making Process

摘要

The strategic use of Information Technology in the acquisition field can be very useful in the decision making process of evaluating alternative solutions during a Government source selection. Current implementation of information technology provides a more tactical approach to systems development. The use of Electronic Commerce/Electronic Data Interchange and the internet to electronically transfer information is only the beginning of the shift towards a more strategic design process for information systems within Government procurement agencies. A schematic model was designed to demonstrate how information technology, such as Decision Support Systems, Expert Systems, and Shared Data Warehousing could assist the SSA in selecting the optimal, or best value solution. In addition, three source selection evaluation models using management science techniques were designed and developed using Microsoft Excel software. The Sealed Bidding, FAR Part 14, and Competitive Proposal, FAR Part 15 models implemented Integer Linear Programming through Microsoft Excel's SOLVER option. The AFFARS Appendix AA/BB model implemented the use of the multi- criteria Analytical Hierarchy Process.