Selection of Enterprise Software Solutions

Nov 17

A State’s Central Procurement Office engaged Ikaso to develop an alternative acquisition strategy to select enterprise software solutions for the State Central Office of Technology.

The Challenge

A State’s Office of Technology faced difficulties in procuring complex enterprise software solutions in an agile and competitive manner. Ikaso was tasked with designing a streamlined and effective acquisition strategy that could adapt to the rapidly evolving technology landscape while maximizing competition and maintaining the principles of public procurement.

The Outcome

Ikaso collaborated with the State Procurement Office to design a comprehensive acquisition strategy leveraging an existing enterprise IT software reseller agreement. This agreement, already procured through a formal RFP process, ensured buy-in from key government stakeholders. Ikaso used the reseller agreement to facilitate second-tier competitive events that significantly improve efficiency and effectiveness in the software selection process. Utilizing this strategy, the State has procured several enterprise software solutions that closely align with their operational goals and technological requirements.

Values-Centered Approach

Ikaso's approach was deeply rooted in its commitment to values-centered procurement. Recognizing that the success of acquiring and implementing enterprise software solutions relies on input and buy-in from agency users, Ikaso engaged both technical staff and end users throughout the acquisition process - from requirements gathering through solution evaluation and selection. Active collaboration with stakeholders from the State Procurement Office, the Office of Technology, and the software reseller fostered a sense of shared process ownership and ensured that the selected solutions met the diverse needs of the State. Additionally, Ikaso's curiosity and innovative spirit drove the development of a forward-thinking strategy that balanced immediate needs with long-term goals.

Highlighted Results

Newly developed agile process allows clients to move from need identification to selected platform in 6 months

Process replicated to secure:

Identity Management Platform
Identity Verification Platform
Citizen Engagement Platform
Content Services Platform

Opportunity for use outside of software selection

Meet the Experts

Procurement Strategy and Execution

Sara Graham

ENGAGETASTE IS A WEB DESIGN, BRANDING AND CONTENT CREATION AGENCY BASED IN THE U.S.

Sara Graham is a Squarespace Expert, Certified Squarespace Trainer and a Top-Level Designer on Squarespace-partner-agency, 99designs, and has worked with more than 700 clients in dozens of countries. Her passion lies in creating beauty, compelling stories and tools that drive business growth. Her design philosophy centers around function, simplicity and distinctiveness. As both a designer and a writer, she crafts rich experiences that express depth, personality, and professionalism in a wholly unique way. She finds immense joy in fostering a sense of connection between website visitors and the business owner.

https://www.engagetaste.com