Which of the following can use competitive contracting?

Competitive contracting is a procurement method often utilized by public entities to secure services that are more complex or that cannot easily be defined by specifications. This method allows municipalities to solicit proposals from multiple vendors and evaluate them based on various criteria, not just cost, which can result in improved quality and innovation.

In the context of options provided, the correct answer centers on computer software and laboratory testing. These services typically require a higher degree of specialization and expertise, making them suitable for competitive contracting. They often involve nuanced requirements and various potential solutions that need thorough evaluation beyond just price. Municipalities benefit from this approach as it allows them to assess vendors on factors like technical ability, past performance, and the overall value of the proposal.

Garbage collection services, housing development, and public transportation tend to fall under more traditional procurement methods. These services are generally more straightforward in terms of defining specifications and criteria for evaluation, often making them better aligned with standard bidding processes rather than competitive contracting.