MERP VT Permitting Guide
Where can I find more information about VTBuys?
You can get updates about the VTBuys project at our main VTBuys website page. Read our latest updates!
You can also subscribe to our newsletter to get program updates.
Or you can submit your questions and feedback to the VTBuys mailbox at SOV.VTBuys@vermont.gov.
When will we know more?
Information will be made available periodically over the course of the next few months as the implementation progresses.
Communications will be updated on the website, through Q&A sessions, and via other means.
How can I help?
The most important way you can help is to ask questions and provide your input as a system user.
You’ll have the opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions during demos and training, but you can also reach out directly to SOV.VTBuys@vermont.gov.
Will training be provided?
Yes. Training and support will be available for both State end users and suppliers as the User Acceptance Testing (UAT) phase begins.
There will also be training and issue resolution support once the system is live and in use.
Will there be business process changes?
Yes. Standardized processes and foundational elements are being established as the basis for the VTBuys platform.
Process reengineering will entail a single point of access for agencies and suppliers with a fully electronic workflow from sourcing to payment.
Who will be impacted by VTBuys?
- Requestors of goods and services.
- Procurement professionals.
- Project Managers (supervising contracts).
- Receivers of goods and services.
- Finance professionals.
- Suppliers of goods and services.
Will there be technology changes?
Yes. VTBuys will replace the Think Vermont System or Electronic Bid Board (EBB) currently used for posting notices or solicitation opportunities. The new system has a robust rules engine with built-in compliance for purchasing and enhanced spend analytics capabilities.
Historical data will be migrated from existing platforms. Integrations with other systems like VISION (State’s Financial System), STARS (VTRANS’s Financial System) will make important procurement data transfer seamless.
What are the benefits for suppliers who do business with the State?
The primary benefit for suppliers who do business with the State is a single system for all procurement activities with the state.
Every aspect of your interaction with the State will be electronic and available via the Supplier Portal, including viewing bid opportunities, submitting bids, uploading documents, viewing contract awards, monitoring dashboard reporting on spend and performance evaluation, submitting invoices, and accessing invoice approval progress.
Other benefits include:
- Standardized interaction with State/non-state entities for procurement activities
- General contractors can search within VTBuys for subcontractors who are approved suppliers, and subcontractors can search for general contractors who are approved suppliers
- Access to new potential clients: VTBuys will be used by the State and some non-state entities for procurement activities
- Increased transparency in the procurement process
- Electronic creation and submission of W9s
- Online self-management for ACH information