This session will focus on the Modernization of Procurement, a Government of Canada initiative, and what is being done within PWGSC, Western Region, in support of that initiative. In the November 2008 Speech from the Throne, procurement was identified as a means to make internal government services more effective. This session will address four areas identified to support the procurement modernization initiative: Reducing Barriers to Doing Business; Improving e-Access and Tools; Enhancing Accountability and Transparency; and, Increasing Outreach and Support. In addition, current plans for decentralizing routine, low dollar value procurement will be discussed and some of the tools in place to share information, such as websites and Client Bulletins, will be outlined.

What tools does Public Works and Government Services Canada have to assist the procurement and materiel management community? This session will explore various electronic tools such as Standing Offer Index, Professional Services Online, and many others. Reference information will also be provided to assist in all stages of acquisition.

Explore ways to make the Regional Workshop more meaningful to you. Get to know your fellow participants. Bring your business cards and expand your network in the community.

Ever wanted to be in charge of the agenda at one of these workshops? Want to know if others are wrestling with the same issues you are or if they’ve found a solution that could work for you? Do you have a challenge you’re working through or a success story you’d like to share? A facilitator will guide you in a networking session designed to encourage the free flow of discussions on the issues you care about most.

This project was awarded the 2009 Leadership in Public Procurement Award by the Summit Magazine/Canadian Public Procurement Council. This presentation will outline the strategic sourcing methodology that was employed in the light-duty vehicles project, including the major phases in the strategic sourcing process. Learn how a collaborative, team-based strategic sourcing approach in the planning, formulation, implementation and ongoing management of the project was used to achieve successful results.

This session will provide practical advice to promote effective and transparent bidding and tendering practices. A brief discussion about the recent amendments to the provisions of the Competition Act that pertain to conspiracy and bid-rigging will take place. An overview of detection techniques including the identification of the red flags to look for and tips and specific actions departments can take to mitigate the risk of becoming a victim will also be discussed. Actual cases will be used to provide participants with an understanding of the role of the Government of Canada Competition Bureau in assisting organizations identify, investigate and prosecute offenders. This session will raise your awareness of bid-rigging schemes and equip you with information necessary to assess the risk of it occurring in your organization.