Understanding Frameworks: A Step-by-Step Guide
A procurement framework, or Public Sector Framework Agreement, is a structured agreement that enables public sector organisations to purchase goods, services, or works from pre-approved suppliers without the need for a full tender process every time. These frameworks are designed to streamline procurement, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and value for money while supporting flexibility to meet broader strategic goals such as corporate social responsibility.
Frameworks are not only about the supply of goods and services, they also work to identify needs and define specifications relevant to individual organisations, and pinpoint appropriate suppliers prior to tendering, negotiation, and supplier management.
The Procurement Act 2023 reinforces the importance of transparency, efficiency, and flexibility within procurement frameworks. By focusing on open access to opportunities, clear evaluation criteria, and simplified processes, the Act ensures that frameworks provide the best possible outcomes for both buyers and suppliers and has leveled the playing field for small and medium-sized enterprises to compete for public contracts.
How Can Frameworks Benefit Your Organisation?
Procurement frameworks, in line with the Procurement Act 2023, offer a host of advantages that make them an attractive option:
● Transparency and Compliance - Frameworks ensure a fully compliant procurement route, increasing transparency and reducing legal risks in line with UK Public Contracts Regulations (PCR) 2015
● Time and Cost Efficiency - By eliminating the need for repetitive tendering, frameworks significantly reduce administrative burdens and procurement costs.
● Flexibility and Accessibility - Organisations can benefit from various purchasing options tailored to different needs, including supplier competition and direct award solutions.
● Value for Money - Pre-negotiated pricing and supplier vetting (in compliance with the UK Public Contracts Regulations (PCR) 2015) help ensure competitive rates and quality assurance.
● Supporting Strategic Goals - Frameworks are increasingly designed to align with sustainability objectives, social value requirements, and ethical procurement practices.
When to Use a Framework
Using a framework is ideal for any public sector procurement but can be particularly useful when:
● You want to make a purchases quickly and easy whilst ensuring compliance and best value.
● Your procurement plan needs support from experts in the sector.
● You require a trusted compliant supplier with pre-vetted credentials, satisfactory product specifications, and agreed pricing within your budget.
● Your organisation wants to align procurement with strategic sustainability and responsibility goals.
● The goods or services you need are commonly procured across the sector, making a framework a cost-effective solution.
● When spending on a specific category is above the *Public Contract Regulations financial thresholds.
*Currently the threshold is £214,904 (inc VAT) for educational establishments in the UK. Under the PCRs, you can either run your own procurement exercise, which must be advertised on the Government’s ‘Find A Tender Service’ and comply with the PCRs; or you can use a framework, saving you valuable time and resources
A Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Procurement Framework
Identify Your Needs – Define the scope of goods or services required.
Find the Right Framework – Select a framework that best fits your needs and aligns with the Procurement Act 2023’s principles.
Check Supplier Lists – Review pre-approved suppliers and their offerings.
Choose Your Procurement Method – Decide whether to use a direct award or run a supplier competition.
Engage with Suppliers – Request quotes or proposals as needed.
Evaluate and Award – Assess responses based on value, compliance, and sustainability criteria.
Manage the Contract – Monitor performance to ensure continued value and compliance.
By leveraging the right framework, organisations can enhance procurement efficiency, ensure regulatory compliance, and contribute to wider economic and sustainability goals.
How Dukefield’s Experience Can Help With Your Procurement Needs
With extensive expertise in procurement, Dukefield Procurement Services simplifies the framework process, ensuring organisations achieve the best possible outcomes. Our experience allows us to navigate the latest procurement regulations, helping you maximise efficiency, secure best value for money, and meet all compliance regulations.
Whether you’re new to frameworks or looking to refine your procurement strategy, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. From our Procurement Audit Service to our Managed Support Services, our mission is to simplify procurement for you and your team.
For more information about our frameworks click here or contact us.