Describes an eight-step bid-analysis procedure that includes comparing bids with specifications, listing options offered by the bidders, assigning costs to each option, and comparing the bids without desired options. Presents a sample bid-analysis chart. (RW)

Purchasing forms carelessly can cost money. Duke University has established a forms management system expected to save $40,000, or almost 10 percent, in the first year of operation. (Author/MLF)

The Middlesex County Board of Education in Hyde Park (Ontario) has developed an automated tendering/purchasing system for ordering standard items that has reduced by 80 percent the time required for tendering, evaluating, awarding, and ordering items. (Author/MLF)

An independent consultant retained for a school building project will monitor, troubleshoot, and see that the proper project management is being performed by the architect, engineer, and contractor. (Author/MLF)

An automated list of bidders can be organized to provide an effective means of soliciting qualified suppliers to school districts. The system in Frederick County, Maryland, is described. (MLF)