Common use of Use of Electronic Means Clause in Contracts

Use of Electronic Means. 1. The Parties shall seek to provide opportunities for covered procurement to be undertaken through electronic means, including the publication of procurement information, notices, and tender documentation, and for the receipt of tenders. 2. When conducting covered procurement by electronic means, a procuring entity shall: (a) ensure that the procurement is conducted using information technology systems and software, including those related to authentication and encryption of information, that are generally available and interoperable with other generally available information technology systems and software; and (b) maintain mechanisms that ensure the integrity of requests for participation and tenders, including establishment of the time of receipt and the prevention of inappropriate access.