An integrated system like Virginia's is a must for states that want to procure goods and services efficiently, and it's good for suppliers as well.
Virginia officials knew that their traditional, decentralized procurement system wasn't working -- for either buyers or sellers. Suppliers were frustrated: companies had to first identify all of the purchasing offices to market their goods, then travel to in-person meetings to identify and track opportunities. State officials lamented a lack of transparency, consistency and availability for small and diverse businesses to participate.