The Oregon Buys Process Guide

Updated: April 14, 2025

This guide walks you through the Oregon Buys procurement process, using a logo design project as an example.

Oregon's Procurement Thresholds

The state of Oregon has established procurement thresholds that determine how state agencies can purchase services (such as logo design):

Procurement Type Dollar Threshold Process Requirements
Small Procurement Up to $25,000 Direct award permitted; no formal competition required
Intermediate Procurement $25,001 - $150,000 Requires informal competition (at least 3 quotes)
Formal Procurement Over $150,000 Requires formal RFP process

Most logo design projects fall under the Small Procurement threshold, allowing for a more straight-forward process (hooray!).

Benefits of the Small Procurement process

For state agencies, the $25,000 threshold for small procurements provides significant benefits:

  • Streamlined selection: Agencies can directly select designers based on portfolio and experience
  • Reduced administrative burden: No need for complex RFP processes
  • Faster project initiation: Projects can begin shortly after selection
  • Focus on quality: Selection can prioritize design expertise over lowest bid
  • Relationship building: Agencies can work with designers who understand their needs

Case Study

Oregon Bureau of Sasquatch Research (OBSR) Logo

Root Signal recently completed a hypothetical logo project for the Oregon Bureau of Sasquatch Research (a fictional agency used for demonstration purposes).

Here's how the process would work:

1. Initial Contact & Project Definition

OBSR reached out directly through Oregon Buys with their needs:

  • New division logo design
  • Budget: $8,000 (under the $25,000 small procurement threshold)
  • Timeline: 8 weeks from contract award
  • Deliverables: Logo in multiple formats, basic style guide, usage examples

2. Our Response

We prepared a comprehensive proposal including:

  • Project understanding and approach
  • Creative discovery process
  • Timeline with key milestones
  • Fee structure
  • Detailed explanation of our design methodology

3. Contract Award

Because the project falls under the $25,000 small procurement threshold:

  • The OBSR would be able to award directly to Root Signal
  • No formal competitive bidding would be required
  • The agency would document their selection process
  • Contract would be executed through Oregon Buys

4. Project Execution

Our process would include:

  • Discovery meeting with cryptozoology experts and field researchers
  • Research phase into Pacific Northwest folklore and scientific documentation
  • Initial concept development (3 options balancing credibility with approachability)
  • Refinement of selected concept (likely incorporating subtle footprint elements)
  • Final delivery of logo package (with special considerations for night-vision compatibility)

5. Project Completion & Payment

  • Final logo package would be delivered through Oregon Buys
  • Invoice would be submitted through the system
  • Payment typically processed within 30 days
  • The agency would likely use the new branding on their expedition gear and public education materials

Why Root Signal?

We're Local!

We have the flexibility to meet with you in person at your office (or stick with Zoom calls, if that's your preference)

Woman-Owned Business

Working with Root Signal makes it easier for state and local government agencies to meet their supplier diversity goals.

Collaborative Approach

We work closely with agency stakeholders to ensure designs reflect organizational values and resonate with constituents.

Full-Service Capabilities

Beyond logo design, we can provide comprehensive branding services including:

  • Brand guidelines
  • Digital assets
  • Print collateral
  • Website design
  • Environmental graphics

Cost-Effective Solutions

Our efficient process ensures maximum value within government budgets.

How to work with us

As a registered Oregon Buys vendor, contracting with Root Signal is straightforward:

  1. Find us in Oregon Buys using our registered name "Root Signal LLC" or our Oregon Buys vendor number: V00044187
  2. Contact us directly to discuss your project needs before initiating the procurement process
  3. Request a proposal through Oregon Buys or directly based on your agency's procedures
  4. Begin our collaborative process once contracting is complete

Our details

  • Registered Name: Root Signal LLC
  • Oregon Buys Vendor ID: V00044187
  • Business Registry Number: 2366505-94

Ready to chat?

Let's make something great together!