Over 100 Entities Trained to Utilise PPC’s Public Procurement Database Management System

More than 100 entities have been trained in the use of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) Procurement Endorsement Database Management System (PEDMS).

PEDMS is an online web-based platform that enables procuring entities, including ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), to submit requests for procurement contracts exceeding a specified threshold.

Contract submissions were previously made via email or hard copy, leading to extended processing times.

However, the PPC has significantly improved efficiency with the implementation of the PEDMS.

This centralised digital system allows procuring entities to submit applications through a transmittal form, complete with the necessary supporting documents.

Each procuring entity can register multiple users under a single sign-on, subject to PPC approval.

The portal is managed by the PPC’s Procurement, Management and Compliance Branch (PMCB) which reviews and approves government contracts for submission to the Board of Commissioners for ratification or endorsement.

The PMCB reviews contracts that are above the Tier One threshold.

Tier Two contracts are valued more than $30 million but less than $60 million and require Board approval.

Once the procuring entity receives approval notification, they can proceed with contract implementation.

Tier Three contracts, which are valued over $60 million, are endorsed by the PMCB and must be forwarded to Cabinet for final decision before implementation.

Speaking during a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank’ on March 24, Senior Director for the PMCB,

Kerri-Ann Henry Douglas, noted that all MDAs are required to use the PEDMS, which was implemented on April 1, 2024.

“It’s mandatory… you can’t send us anything via e-mail. In facilitating that process or the new introduction, we have been conducting sensitisation or training with the procuring entities and, to date, we have trained over 106 procuring entities to utilise this system,” Mrs. Henry Douglas said.

She advised that training by the Commission is ongoing, pointing out that, “if you have trained three persons and you want three additional persons, just reach out to us”.

“The introduction of PEDMS has transformed our operations, ensuring a more seamless and transparent procurement approval process,” Mrs. Henry Douglas said.