The Procurement Act 2023 introduced 17 new notices, which contracting authorities must publish. These notices refer to the entire procurement lifecycle from planning to contract award. They are designed to make the process more transparent. As a buyer, you must make use of some of these notices to: advertise your procurement pipeline make sure it […]
Category Archives: Procurement Essentials
What is a ‘call-off’ and how to get the process right
What is a call-off? A call-off is a contract between a buyer and supplier. You may also hear the phrase ‘call-off contract’, which means the same thing. They are used to buy goods and services from a framework and they agree on the specific details of the order, such as quantities and timelines. There is […]
How to get support with PFI and PPP contract management
What are PFI and PPP contracts? Private Finance Initiative (PFI) is a procurement method where the private sector finances, designs, builds, and maintains public infrastructure (like hospitals, schools, and roads) through long-term contracts. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is a long-term contract between a government entity and a private company for the delivery and funding of public […]
How to evaluate bids in procurement
Many procurements involve a bid process, such as further competition or award with competition, where suppliers bid for a buyer’s business by submitting tenders. Tenders, also known as bids, are formal, written offers to the buyer’s request for goods or services. The buyer then evaluates the bids to choose a winner in a fair and […]
What is a framework in procurement?
What is a framework? In procurement, a framework is a long-term agreement between one or more buyers and one or more suppliers. It sets terms for future orders over a period of years. Frameworks help public and third sector buyers to procure goods and services from a list of pre-approved suppliers, with agreed terms and […]
What is a Dynamic Purchasing System?
What is a Dynamic Purchasing System in procurement? A Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) is a type of commercial agreement that operates through an online marketplace. DPSs offer customers a quick, easy and flexible way to buy commonly used goods and services. Public sector buyers can procure from a list of pre-approved suppliers. They also benefit […]
Buying goods and services: what Scottish public bodies need to know
We offer ready-made commercial agreements that let you buy goods and services without starting from scratch. Think of it like a catalogue, where the hard work of vetting suppliers has already been done. If you are based in Scotland, there are some extra steps when using agreements launched under the Procurement Act 2023. This guide […]
The benefits of working with SMEs for public sector buyers
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of any healthy economy; they help to create job opportunities and support economic growth and innovation. At Crown Commercial Service (CCS) we understand the importance of having a diverse range of suppliers working with the public sector. That’s why we take positive actions to make sure that […]
What does the new social value model mean for public sector procurement?
The Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 requires public sector buyers to maximise economic, social and environmental benefits for local communities when buying goods and services. In February 2025, Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 002 provided an update to the social value model that applies to central government contract procurements. This reflected the new Procurement Act […]
Supplier relationship management: how to manage supplier relationships effectively
What is supplier relationship management? Supplier relationship management (SRM) is the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of suppliers that provide your organisation with goods, materials, or services. Effective SRM means building and maintaining positive relationships with suppliers through regular communication, collaboration, and shared objectives. It starts during the bidding phase. Poor supplier relationships can increase organisational […]