What is the initial step in the acquisition process for a Materials Management Information System (MMIS)?

The initial step in the acquisition process for a Materials Management Information System (MMIS) is to conduct a Request for Information (RFI). This stage is crucial as it allows the organization to gather preliminary information about potential vendors and their products. The RFI process helps to identify available options in the market, understand different functionalities and features of MMIS solutions, and assess which vendors might be suitable for further consideration. By collecting this information upfront, organizations can make informed decisions about what they need in the system and how to approach next steps, such as drafting a Request for Proposal (RFP) or an invitation to bid.

This groundwork is essential for ensuring that you're aligning your organization's needs with the capabilities of the available systems, which will ultimately lead to a more effective selection process for the MMIS.