Expanding Choice and Value: Working Smarter in IT Procurement

As part of its commitment to smarter purchasing and better outcomes, Systemwide Procurement (SWP) conducted the Networking Value-Added Resellers (VAR) RFP, a major effort to expand access to VARs essential networking infrastructure at UC.

With an annual UC-wide IT spend of roughly $75 million across major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Cisco, HPE Aruba, and Juniper, the stakes are high. Until now, each OEM had a single go-to VAR: ePlus for Cisco, Dasher for HPE Aruba, and InterVision for Juniper. But UC IT stakeholders wanted more flexibility, competition, and choice.

How We Did It

The Network VAR sourcing project mission was clear: to provide a choice of more VARs, more competitive pricing, and support UC’s broader goals around greater economic and community impact.

Through a competitive RFP process built on UC’s proven 7-step sourcing methodology, the team evaluated bids not just on price, but on best value, which includes service capabilities, innovation potential, and alignment with UC’s mission.

A Broader, More Competitive Supplier Pool

This project delivered an expanded lineup of approved VARs across all three OEMs:

(* Economic Impact Supplier / **Small Business Supplier)

Now, all UC locations can choose from a diverse pool of qualified VARs tailored to their unique needs, while operating under UC Systemwide Agreement terms.

Systemwide Benefits

Here’s what the UC community gains from this project:

• Expanded supplier options for local and specialized services
• Competitive pricing through open-market competition
• Increased opportunities for small and diverse businesses
• Alignment with UC values.

This is IT procurement working smarter for everyone across the UC system.

For guidance on how to engage with or support navigating the new Networking VARs, contact Bala Balakumar, Sr. IT Commodity Manager, UC Systemwide Procurement.