These brand name computers, servers, and peripherals are what the Gartner Group describes as “Enterprise Tier” vendors. An Enterprise Tier vendor is one that has the following characteristics:
• Suitable for large volume purchases, enterprise deployments, and centralized procurement initiatives.
• Offers State/local government and major account programs, worldwide sales, service, and support capabilities.
• Offers third party support, extensive quality assurance, and testing programs.
Another important factor for consideration of computer hardware purchases is Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Standardizing on fewer brands of personal computers and servers minimizes troubleshooting time, parts inventory, technical training, and vendor coordination.
The best interest of the county is served by the decision to select from these three name brands as industry research firms consistently rate them high in service reliability, on-site warranties, and telephone support. San Mateo County’s experience with these brands confirms these reports, as they are reliable and provide good value to the County.
This decision will not limit any single department’s purchasing requirements. Individual departments would have the option of purchasing from these companies or any other vendor that meets their needs. This resolution would allow departments choosing to purchase Dell, Hewlett Packard, or Gateway computers, servers, or peripherals to procure them without having to submit a sole source justification for each purchase, thereby streamlining the purchasing procedure.
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