We used to had that happen but had so many purchases turn out ill that contracting has come to the "understanding" that they need to contact us before arbitrarily modifying our purchase. But I know what you mean and completely sympathize. It seems all governmental contracting departments operating identically!

The really important question out of all this is what can we do to fix the system? What solutions can we provide which will still fall within the spirit of the regulations without compromising tax dollars while still allowing the IT professionals to get the job done?

I'd lean towards commending them for even asking. Shows they at 'least' take an interest in making a good purchase. I've been through incidents where the contracting department arbitrarily changes a product because the specs are 'similar' to what was on the initial purchase request — WITHOUT asking.

Regardless, you are right, the system needs an overhaul…. badly.

Additionally, many contracting offices are not only short-sighted but they are also forced to follow antiquated regulations which were designed well before IT requirements became so important. The Federal Acquisition Regulations are voluminous, cryptic and highly complex, and in most cases are the problem rather than the solution.

I've also found contracting offices who will call me up and say, "why don't you go with product X since it's $Y cheaper than your required product?" To which I have to explain that *I* am the IT professional and selected the product to fulfill a specific requirement. Point is, buy what I asked and stick to being a contractor while I stick to being an IT professional who knows what IT purchases are best for my organization.

Anyhow, long story short, the entire system is screwed and in dire need of a complete overhaul to properly work with IT acquisitions.