We need the maintenance service to cover for repairs and software upgrades to the Parata Max automated system that fills the patient vials. Its an automated system that fills the patient vial including labeling, counting, dispensing, capping and shorting. The system is mandated by regulation and requires software and hardware support. This is a service agreement for four Parata Max machines that are used in the Ambulatory Pharmacy Department. The use of all components and services is required for the maintenance and improvement of this equipment. Parata will perform all essential safety and reliability improvements to the covered equipment at a mutually agreed-upon time.

The university, on information and belief, has concluded that only one vendor can meet its need or can meet the need economically. That vendor is Parata Max. The university has provided detailed justification to support its conclusion as shown on the attached Sole Source Justification Form.

Although the university has presented this as a sole source procurement, we are seeking competitive information from firms with the capability of meeting the university's need (even if performed in a manner different from what has been presented) to contact us and provide sufficient information to show the need can be met. If we receive that information, the Chief Procurement Officer will offer a public hearing to consider the matter. Hearing information is described below.

All sole source hearings under the jurisdiction of the Chief Procurement Officer for Higher Education will be conducted by tele-conference only until the in-person option is reinstated.

The University has determined that this purchase is only economically available from this source because the procurement is software license, upgrade or maintenance.