Technology Procurement
Definition
The process government uses to purchase technology systems, software, and services. Traditional procurement emphasizes lowest bid and rigid specifications written years before purchase, often resulting in expensive systems that don’t meet user needs. Modern procurement uses agile methods, modular purchasing, open-source software, and evaluation criteria emphasizing outcomes over features. Poor tech procurement wastes millions on systems that fail or deliver minimal value.
Louisville Context
Louisville Metro’s technology procurement follows traditional government purchasing processes that prioritize lowest cost and prescriptive requirements. This has led to expensive failures including the payroll/HR system that launched years late and millions over budget. Metro typically purchases large, proprietary systems requiring expensive vendor relationships rather than modular, open-source alternatives. Procurement staff lack technology expertise to evaluate proposals effectively.
Why It Matters
Government wastes enormous sums on failed technology projects due to outdated procurement practices. When Louisville spends millions on systems that don’t work or vendors that lock government into expensive contracts, that’s money unavailable for services residents need. Modern procurement methods can deliver better technology at lower cost while avoiding vendor lock-in.
Dave’s Proposal
Dave will reform Metro’s technology procurement by establishing an IT Procurement Modernization Team (within $1.025 billion budget) with both procurement and technology expertise. New policies will prioritize modular purchasing, open-source alternatives, agile development methods, and outcomes-based contracts. He’ll end vendor lock-in by requiring data portability and avoiding proprietary systems where open alternatives exist.