2-1.3 Components of a Purchase Plan

A purchase plan should include the following:

• Purpose of the purchase.
• SOO, SOW, specifications, or product descriptions.
• Item purchase history.
• Special considerations (e.g., compatibility with other equipment; cost, schedule, or performance constraints; compatibility or conformance with Postal Service–approved items; environmental issues; or security requirements).
• Resource availability (including funding).
• Preliminary TCO estimate.
• Delivery schedule or period of performance requirements.
• Risk management.
• Preliminary sourcing strategy.
• Contract type.
• Supplier prequalification plans.
• Any proposal-specific performance evaluation factors that will help determine best value.
• Proposal evaluation strategy, if proposal evaluation factors will be used.
• A written description of the purchase method to be used; whether the purchase will be competitive or noncompetitive (if noncompetitive, the business case for this decision must be included in the plan).
• Quality assurance plan (QAP).
• Supplier reporting requirements.
• Clarification of data rights and intellectual property issues.
• Life cycle support plan overview.
• Supplier diversity considerations.
• Postal Service property or facilities that will be furnished to the supplier.
• Possible conflicts of interest.

In addition to the elements above, and depending on the complexity of the purchase, the purchase plan must include a project plan that clearly identifies significant key milestones critical to the success of the purchase (e.g., publicizing the purchase, issuing the RFP, receiving proposals, evaluation, discussions, and any reviews or approvals needed), schedule, and resources required. The purchase/SCM team is responsible for developing the project plan, as well as development and finalization of the purchase plan.