In what way are the Government and the private sector different? The Government dictates market prices to potential vendors to save taxpayer dollars; the private sector negotiates prices with potential vendors to get the best value. The Government forms long-term relationships with vendors to secure better prices, services, and priority treatment; the private sector maintains market flexibility by only working with vendors for a limited time. The Government strives to obtain quality supplies or services at a reasonable cost; the private sector strives to build credibility by obtaining the latest in new technology. The Government's priority is to serve its citizens; the private sector's priority is to make a profit