The director shall advise with the heads of the various state and other institutions producing commodities, services and printing, with the view to making these articles suitable for the needs of state spending units. Notwithstanding any provision of this code to the contrary, in the event of conflict between state and other institutions producing commodities, services and printing with preference in accordance with the code, the director shall determine which institution shall provide a commodity, service or printing, basing such determination on quality, price and the efficient and economical operation of state government.