Public Sector Frameworks: A Guide to Success

Public sector framework agreements have become an increasingly important route to market for organisations wanting to work with government bodies, now representing over 70% of public sector spend with suppliers. These procurement arrangements establish terms and conditions for future contracts, creating an efficient pathway whilst ensuring compliance with UK regulations.

Single-provider versus multi-provider frameworks

There are two main types of frameworks that organisations should be familiar with. Single-supplier frameworks appoint one provider to deliver specific goods or services to its member or participating organisations, offering benefits such as guaranteed pricing and simplified procurement processes. In contrast, multi-supplier frameworks create a pool of pre-approved suppliers who compete through mini-competitions for individual contracts. Both typically operate for four years, though some sectors allow extensions up to eight years.

Advantages of frameworks

For suppliers, frameworks offer compelling advantages. They provide a stable platform for building long-term relationships with public sector organisations, reduce administrative burdens, and can generate consistent revenue streams. The competitive field is naturally smaller than the open market, and once appointed, suppliers benefit from regular opportunities to secure new business.

Successful bidding for framework inclusion

When bidding for a framework position, suppliers must excel across Quality, Technical, and Pricing elements. Success requires credible evidence of previous public sector work, clear technical solutions that meet framework requirements, and competitive pricing that demonstrates value for money. It's essential to understand the buyer's priorities and align responses accordingly, supporting claims with concrete examples of previous achievements.

Proposed changes to frameworks coming in 2025

Looking ahead, the UK's Procurement Act 2023 will introduce significant changes from February 2025, including the concept of 'open frameworks'. This innovation will allow new suppliers to join at specific points during the framework's duration, promoting ongoing competition and innovation in public sector procurement.

Frameworks and Dynamic Purchasing Systems (DPS)

For organisations considering their procurement options, it's worth noting the distinction between frameworks and Dynamic Purchasing Systems (DPS). While frameworks typically operate as closed systems with fixed supplier lists, a DPS remains open throughout its lifetime, allowing new suppliers to join at any time. DPS arrangements require competition for every opportunity, whereas frameworks often permit both direct awards and mini-competitions, offering greater flexibility in supplier selection.

Through careful preparation, strong bid writing capabilities, and a clear strategy for delivering value, organisations can successfully navigate the framework bidding process and establish themselves as trusted public sector suppliers.

Ocean City Bids is a professional bid agency based in the UK, covering all industries and with extensive experience and expertise in healthcare, social care, recruitment, life sciences and telecoms.  We help many of our clients to secure a place on frameworks and Dynamic Purchasing Systems, and to participate in call-off competitions.

Contact us on bid@oceancitybids.co.uk for a friendly, informal discussion about your bidding needs. www.oceancitybids.co.uk