3.3. Understanding Sourcing Tools
SPD
may authorize state entities to solicit bids and proposals from suppliers to be submitted non-electronically (e.g. bids/proposals are packaged and delivered to a physical location) or electronically (e.g. bids/proposals are transmitted electronically through an approved SPD sourcing tool). Sourcing tool refers to software permitting a state entity to receive bids and proposals by way of the Internet or other electronic means. The advertisement of the solicitations requiring electronic submission of bids and proposals will be publicly posted in accordance with the provisions of this manual, with directions on how to obtain access to the solicitation. All such solicitations will be administered pursuant to the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (O.C.G.A.) 10-12-1 et seq. Through use of an SPD approved sourcing tool, an electronic record meets any requirements for writing and an electronic signature meets any requirements for an original signature; provided, however, SPD may require or allow some documents to be submitted in "hard copy" (paper form) with original signatures. All public electronic records are subject to inspection under the provisions of the (O.C.G.A.) Section 50-18-70 through (O.C.G.A.) Section 50-18-77.
Sourcing tools must comply with security standards established by Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) and accommodate any and all of SPD’s applicable procurement rules, such as the formal sealed bidding process defined in Chapter 2 - Stage 2 - Pre-Solicitation.
The following sourcing tools have been approved by SPD and the use of any sourcing tools other than those identified herein must be approved by the State Purchasing Division Deputy Commissioner. The procurement professional must submit any such request in writing to SPD via email to processimprovement@doas.ga.gov.