Online Computer Shop Opens

Online Computer Shop Opens

nferris@govexec.com

Unisys Corp. has launched a new venture allowing federal offices to order off-the-shelf computer hardware and software with a single toll-free telephone call or a visit to the World Wide Web.

Unisys' Federal Systems Division launched its service, called Select IT (www.selectit.com) this week. Its catalog lists hundreds of products from six of the nation's largest wholesale distributors. The service is linked to the distributors on line, so that order-takers can verify availability and can compare prices across competing product lines. An agreement with Federal Express will get most orders delivered within 48 hours, according to Unisys Federal. A special returns center will accept unsatisfactory products ordered from any manufacturer.

The new service is available only to federal agencies and their contractors. It does not yet list General Services Administration schedule offerings, but Unisys representatives say their prices are competitive with the schedules. Select IT will eventually expand to include schedule offerings as well as open-market prices, they say.

Payment options include the IMPAC federal credit card, purchase order and electronic fund transfer.

In addition to the Web address, Select IT can be accessed at 888-881-8856.

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