Request for Information (RFI) Digital Microscopes for Museums, Conservancies, and STEM Centers

Project Description: This Request for Information (RFI) (Notice of Intent to Designate a Sole Source) is to determine if the specified commodity or service is available from multiple providers, or if an alternate commodity or service is available that would meet the County’s needs. This is not a request for pricing or a purchase commitment.
The following commodity or service is thought to be available from only a sole source (or reasonable source) and is the only commodity/services that meets the County’s needs:
Vuseum Interactive Digital Microscopes VIP Model or approved equal, for the Parks and Recreation Division. Vuseum VIP digital microscope is a high quality, durable instrument meant for use by patrons of museums, nature centers, schools, STEM centers, etc. in a display-style environment. It is self-explanatory and easy to use by all ages, allowing for unsupervised, heavy-duty public use. It is lab rated, has a waterproof and scratch resistant base, and is powder coated for durability. The microscope has a high-resolution macro magnification from 2x - 40x for sharp imaging and a top-mounted LED light for illumination.
This RFI will remain posted until closing date and time.
Prospective Vendors are requested to provide information regarding their ability to provide the commodity or service described or written explanation or other documentation contesting the proposed RFI designation.
If you are capable of meeting or exceeding the County’s requirements for the specified commodity or service, respond to this RFI through the electronic bidding system. Vendor should upload any supporting information in the electronic bidding system as part of its response to assist the County in determining if commodity or service is comparable, is available from multiple suppliers, and meets the County’s needs. The Director of Purchasing shall have sole authority in deciding what is comparable.
The Director of Purchasing shall consider such submittals and notify all submitting vendors (thru the electronic bidding system) of the decision whether to designate as a Sole Source/Brand, which decision shall not be subject to objection, protest, or appeal.