Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) Platform for Food and Nutrition

Mohave is seeking information for a potential contract for a global data synchronization network (GDSN) platform for food and nutrition, for use by Mohave/ASPIN membership of approximately 154 public agencies. These agencies food and nutrition departments will use the platform to obtain the nutrition information for products being served in their cafeterias and food programs. The information will allow them to calculate the USDA required values for each meal. Mohave is seeking information regarding any State and Federal required minimum specifications, general specifications for this type of network platform, and specifications and information on any available licensing options. It is anticipated members will request the platform integrate with their current Point of Sale Software system and or any menu planning software. Mohave is seeking information about the various types of platforms currently available to ensure any resulting RFP includes relative specifications and questions.

BackgroundAbout Mohave: Mohave is a non-profit agency established by the authority of ARS §11-952 and ARS §41-2632. Mohave began administering a cooperative purchasing program in 1986 as a school service agency. Mohave’s membership includes public school districts, community colleges, city and county governments, and political subdivisions throughout Arizona. [See www.mesc.org for list of members.] Membership is established through a Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (CPA). The signed CPA serves as the contract between Mohave and the participating member, and authorizes the member to use Mohave’s procurement contracts. As a local procurement unit administering a cooperative purchasing program, Mohave follows the Arizona Procurement Code and Arizona Department of Education School District Procurement Rules to competitively solicit and award procurement contracts. We have an Executive Board which functions much like a school board. We have independent annual audits, with the results reported to the Arizona Auditor General’s office. When Mohave issues solicitations and awards contracts in compliance with the Arizona Procurement Code and Arizona Department of Education School District Procurement Rules, all members using those contracts are deemed to be in compliance and may use the contracts as if the contracts were their own. A Mohave approved purchase order is a legal contract between a vendor and a member for goods and services. Members issue purchase orders for all goods and services purchased under our contracts. In accordance with the Arizona Procurement Code and Arizona Department of Education School District Procurement Rules, the buying member is responsible for paying for goods and services received under Mohave contract. Mohave’s CPA requires that the member pay within 30 days of the date of the invoice. Mohave receives no direct tax funding for its operation. Instead, Mohave operates on a 1% administration fee, which is generally included in the contract price for materials and services. Mohave is an active member of the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), the Arizona Association of School Business Officials (AASBO), Arizona School Boards Association (ASBA), the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP), and other regional and national professional associations. Learn more about Mohave at www.mesc.org. TimelineRequest for Information Issued:March 25, 2024Deadline for Questions:April 24, 2024, 5:00pmRFI Due Date and Time:May 1, 2024, 3:00pm