Contracting & Bidding Process

Procurement Methods

LYNX uses a variety of procurement methods; selecting the correct one is dependent on several factors. Items expected to cost less than $50,000 are purchased via LYNX's "small purchases" method of procurement. Anything in excess of $50,000 requires the issuance on and Invitation for Bid (IFB) or a Request for Proposal (RFP).

Small Purchases

"Requests for Quotations" (RFQs) are used for all purchases expected to cost less than $50,000. A brief description of the item needed is provided to one or more vendors, who then provide written or oral quotes back to LYNX by an established deadline. Vendors are identified using LYNX's vendor database. If vendors aren't available in the database, LYNX uses the "Thomas Register," phone books, industrial guides, trade publications, etc. LYNX typically contacts three to five vendors. The vendor who submits the best quote - i.e., best price, acceptable delivery terms, etc. - is issued a purchase order.

Large Purchases

Purchases in excess of $50,000 require more sophisticated procurement methods. Special efforts are made to make the vendor community aware of LYNX's requirements. Solicitations are advertised in the "Florida Administrative Weekly," "Orlando Sentinel" and "Orlando Times." The two basic types of procurement methods used for large purchases are "Invitation for Bids" (IFBs) and "Request for Proposals" (RFPs). The solicitation is developed and posted on our online "Bids Postings" page. Solicitations remain open - generally for 30 days - so vendors may have enough time to respond.

Invitation for Bids (IFBs)

For IFBs, LYNX awards contract to the responsive, responsible bidder offering the lowest price. A bid is responsive if it meets all the material requirements of a solicitation. In other words the bid submitted by the vendor doesn't vary from LYNX's original requirements. A bidder is deemed responsible if he/she can demonstrate the capacity and willingness to perform (i.e., proper equipment, manpower, financial resources, technical know-how etc.).

Request for Proposals (RFPs)

For RFPs, award is based not just on price, but also on other factors. The evaluation criteria are always specified in the solicitation. A general rule of thumb is that goods/commodities are purchased via IFB, whereas, services are generally purchased via RFP.

Contract Administrator

For each solicitation issued, LYNX assigns a Contracts Administrator as primary point of contact to assist vendors. The Contracts Administrator is responsible for conducting the procurement. In addition, a conference is generally scheduled well in advance of the bid/proposal submission deadline so that vendors can visit and obtain clarifications regarding the solicitation from LYNX. After evaluation of all offers, LYNX awards a contract. All procurements conducted under the RFP method of procurement require approval by the LYNX Board of Directors prior to award. Procurements conducted under the IFB method of procurement that result in a contract in excess of $150,000 also require approval by the LYNX Board prior to award.

Other Procurement Methods

There are other procurement methods. These include sole source, emergency procurements, use of State Contracts, and Contracts written by other government agencies in which LYNX is authorized to utilize.