Data Analytics

 
The Data Analytics Master Contract Program is premised on the idea that the use of data analytics unlocks insight, supporting the State's commitment to informed, data-driven decision-making to assure resources are properly managed. It allows agencies and members of the State's Cooperative Purchasing Venture to discover cost-saving opportunities, promote efficiencies and achieve quality improvements and empowers them to take optimal advantage of their data-rich environments to better achieve critical objectives. This Program is available for use by State of Minnesota agencies and other government units eligible under the state's Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPVs) established pursuant to Minnesota Statute § 16C.03, subdivision 10. Entities eligible to participate under the cooperative purchasing venture are described in Minnesota Statute § 16C.105. 
 
While the primary objective of the Program is to provide a quick means of purchasing the above-referenced services, the Program provides several additional benefits, including:
  • Administrative Efficiency (contracts are already in place);
  • Cost Avoidance (leveraging economies of scale);
  • Quality Assurance (pre-qualified contractors); and
  • Speed and Administrative Ease (a streamlined process).
 
Vendor selection/awards

How do I utilize the program?

First, determine your eligibility to use the program. You must be a state agency or a member of the State's Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPV) program. Second, determine the estimated total cost of the transaction. For transactions estimated to cost up to $75,000, a user may select directly from the list of eligible master contractors using the Engagement Request method. For transactions estimated in excess of $75,000, a user is required to competitively select a contractor using the Request for Offers (RFO) method. For best results and value, a user may also consider using the RFO method to select a contractor regardless of estimated dollar value including transactions estimated to cost $75,000 or less.
 
Transactions up to and including $75,000
The Engagement Request method allows direct selection of a master contract holder for transactions that will not exceed $75,000 in value, including amendments. 
 
Transactions between $75,001 to $250,000
Transactions, including amendments, estimated to cost between $75,001 to $250,000 a user to competitively solicit a minimum of three master contract holders approved in an applicable service category.
 
Transactions in excess of $250,000
Transactions, including amendments, estimated to cost in excess of $250,000 require a user to competitively solicit all of the master contract holders approved in an applicable service category. 
 
Equity Select
The Equity Select method allows State Agencies direct selection of a master contract holder certified by of the Office of Equity in Procurement for transactions that will not exceed $200,000 in value, including amendments.
 

Reporting (State Agencies Only)
Minnesota Statute § 16C.08, subdivision 4(c) requires state agencies, upon completion of a professional/technical services contract in excess of $25,000, to submit a one-page report summarizing the purpose of the contract, identifying the amount spent on the contract, and evaluating the work completed by the contractor. Reports can be completed online at the Professional/Technical Services Contract Evaluations Page. The reporting requirement does not apply to users other than Minnesota state agencies.