Operational Services Division – Boston, MA

Operational Services Division Overview

The Operational Services Division (OSD) is the primary procurement agency for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Located at One Ashburton Place in Boston, Massachusetts, this state agency is responsible for managing the acquisition of goods and services for the Commonwealth. OSD oversees the COMMBUYS Market Center, the state’s official electronic procurement system, facilitating billions of dollars in purchases annually. The agency plays a critical role in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and best value in state contracting while supporting small and diverse businesses through its supplier diversity programs.

Key Services and Functions

OSD serves both government buyers and business vendors through a variety of specialized units and services:

• Statewide Contracts: Managing over 100 contracts for goods and services available to state agencies, municipalities, and schools.
• Supplier Diversity Office (SDO): Certifying diverse businesses (MBE, WBE, VBE) and promoting their participation in public contracting.
• COMMBUYS Support: providing help desk services and training for vendors and buyers using the online procurement platform.
• Environmentally Preferable Products (EPP): Promoting the purchase of sustainable and eco-friendly products across state government.

Location and Visiting

The OSD main office is situated in the John W. McCormack Building (One Ashburton Place), a major state government facility near the State House. Visitors must enter through the main lobby and undergo security screening, which includes x-ray machines and metal detectors. A valid photo ID is required for entry. While many OSD services, such as bid postings and vendor registration, are available online via COMMBUYS, the office provides administrative support and training coordination. Public parking is not available at the building, but several commercial garages are located nearby, and the facility is accessible via the Government Center and Park Street MBTA stations.