This service allows component districts and Ulster BOCES to bid cooperatively on items, thereby saving on legal advertisements, preparation of specifications, postage, clerical costs, and, above all, product and service costs. Computer technology, such as software and the Internet, offers the Cooperative Purchasing Agent new, efficient, and economical ways to make purchases. A School Business Administrators’ Steering Committee determines items to be bid on and recommends specifications and action on bids. Once accepted, local participating districts place their own orders, receive all shipments, and pay their own bills directly to the vendor. Participating districts share the cost of this service equally. Items to be included on the bid would be those goods/services that two or more participants agree to purchase cooperatively.