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How to Use the TIPS Contract to Purchase IT Equipment for Schools

Written by Robert Baker

 

The TIPS (The Interlocal Purchasing System) contract is a cooperative purchasing program that schools can use to purchase IT equipment and services, including devices, often bypassing the lengthy and time-consuming competitive bidding process because the contracts are already competitively bid.

Here is a general outline of how to use the TIPS contract to purchase IT devices for schools:

  1. Ensure Your Organization is a TIPS Member:

    • The first step is to confirm that your school or district is a current TIPS member.

      You can check on the TIPS-USA website here:

    • If you are not a member, you will need to complete the free membership process on the TIPS website. Membership is typically available to all public and private schools, colleges, universities, and other government entities.

  2. Identify the Appropriate Contract:

    • Review the current TIPS contract awards on the TIPS website, specifically looking for categories like "Technology Solutions Products and Services" or "IT Equipment, Supplies and Services," which would cover devices.

  3. Request a Quote:

     

  4. Create and Submit the Purchase Order (PO):

    • Create a formal purchase order (PO).

    • Clearly identify the purchase as a TIPS purchase somewhere on the PO (e.g., "TIPS PURCHASE").

    • Include the specific TIPS contract number on the PO.

  5. Process the Purchase Order:

    • Email the completed purchase order and the vendor quote (as a PDF file) to the designated TIPS PO email address (often TIPSPO@tips-usa.com). TIPS will process the PO and forward it to Tech to School

       

By following these steps, schools can leverage the competitively bid TIPS contracts to streamline the procurement process for IT Equipment, saving time and administrative resources. You should always refer to the most up-to-date "How to Make a TIPS Purchase" document on the official TIPS-USA website or contact their office for the most current and specific procedures.


For more information, you can visit the TIPS-USA website here:


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