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Buying Practices It is the policy of Canada Science and Technology Museums Corporation to contract for goods and
services in a way that ensures best overall value. The Corporation contracts with those suppliers who satisfy the Corporation
’s objectives of obtaining quality goods and services in a timely manner and meeting specifications with
competitive prices. In so doing, the Corporation, as a matter of principle, conducts its expenditure contracting activities with due regard to applicable
laws, regulations, international agreements and conventions, internal policies and competitive tendering processes. The Corporation does this in such a way as to
convey its high standards of professionalism and business ethics to the external community. As a Crown Corporation, the Canada Science and Technology
Museums Corporation’s procurement must be conducted with due regard to the requirements of the Agreement on Internal
Trade (AIT), and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Purchases subject to these Agreements are published via MERX. Bid packages for procurement subject
to AIT and NAFTA must be ordered through MERX.
Sourcing Suppliers
For purchases not subject to AIT or NAFTA,
suppliers may be identified from past experience with the Corporation, industry directories, Internet, industry and associated information sources including catalogues
and journals, trade shows and conferences. Eligibility standards have been developed for suppliers:
- auditable financial strength;
- proven capacity to meet contractual obligations;
- guaranteed capability for full and continuous supply;
- assurance that requirements will be met through implemented, auditable quality plans; and,
- reputable track record in supplier’s area of expertise.
If a business qualifies, it may be in a position to bid for Corporation work.
Tender Opening
The Corporation does not open tenders in public, nor does it reveal any information contained in the
responses to it’ s requirements, except as required by law. The Corporation firmly believe this would have an impact
on it’s ability to conduct business in a fair and competitive bidding environment.
Negotiation of Contracts Following the initial evaluation process, one or more suppliers who best fits the Corporation’s
overall needs will be invited to enter into negotiations, which may lead to the formulation of a formal contract. The Corporation maintains a centralized purchasing
process. All purchase orders and contracts for the Canada Agriculture Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canada Science and Technology Museum as well as Corporate
Divisions are issued through the Corporate Procurement Division. End users are not authorized to enter into agreements with suppliers. Suppliers should not supply goods
or services before a purchase order/contract is in place, and they should not perform work beyond the scope of the existing contract.
Conclusion
The Corporation values the special relationship it has with its suppliers. The Corporation welcomes any initiatives
by suppliers that contribute to increased productivity and good purchasing management. The Corporation is always willing to discuss developments, improved performance or lower costs
if these help meet the objective of reliable, cost-effective services to the Canadian public.
Contact Relating to Tender Process
MERX (Internet based system)
For more information or to subscribe,
Call: 1-800-964-6379 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern Standard
Time (Monday to Friday)
Fax: 1-888-235-5800
E-mail: merx@merx.com
Visit: www.merx.com
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