Next Section: Sourcing

The Postal Service^TM works closely with trade and industry associations, government agencies, business development and purchasing organizations to exchange information on methods, initiatives, and processes to identify sources of supply. This enables contracting professionals in Supply Management (SM), Facilities Service Offices (FSOs), Distribution Network Offices (DNOs), and Administrative Services Offices (ASOs) as well as credit card holders and internal clients to more effectively identify potential suppliers to meet postal needs. Purchase teams are also able to more effectively use small, minority-owned and women-owned businesses (SMWOBs) in prime contracts and subcontracts to the maximum extent practicable.

• Conduct supplier forums to share information on Postal Service corporate business goals and objectives.
  
• Conduct and participate in surveys and benchmarking studies for continuous improvement of Supplier Diversity processes.
  
• Maintain Intranet and Internet sites with Supplier Diversity policy, procedures, points of contact, and other resource information for our purchase teams, buyers, clients and suppliers.
  
• Attend and participate in business opportunity and trade fairs promoting SMWOBs.
  
• Continue to foster the development of mutually beneficial business relationships between internal clients and the supplier community.
  
• Publicize purchasing and business opportunities in print or electronic media deemed appropriate to enhance competition.
  
• Provide internal and external stakeholders with timely updates on the positive contributions of Supplier Diversity processes.
  
• Continue to make available a formal registration process for potential suppliers.