Obama Administration wants to change how government buys computers

The Obama Administration is clamping down on the way agencies buy laptop and desktop computers. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) barred agencies from soliciting new computer contracts. Civilian agencies will now be required to buy computers through one of three bulk contracts. The plan is aimed at driving down costs. By 2018, three-quarters of all laptop and desktop spending is supposed to come through a few pre-approved contracts.

“There is no need for thousands of contracts to purchase common laptops and desktops,” said Chief Information Officer Tony Scott and Chief Acquisition Officer Anne Rung. Agencies spent about $1.1 billion on laptops and desktop computers in 2014. That came from more than 10,000 contracts, according to OMB. The plan will also cut down on the number of laptop and desktop options for most agency employees. Agencies will also be encouraged to buy new hardware during semiannual bulk government purchases.