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 […]
Category Archives: Procurement Essentials
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 […]
What is the competitive flexible procedure and how does it work for buyers?
The competitive flexible procedure has been introduced by the Procurement Act 2023 to offer public sector buyers flexibility and choice in how they run their procurements. What is the competitive flexible procedure? The competitive flexible procedure (CFP) is a new way to run a procurement through competition. It is designed to give you more opportunity […]
What is a dynamic market? How they work in the public sector
The Procurement Act 2023 has created a new form of commercial agreement called dynamic markets. These agreements provide new flexibilities and opportunities to public sector buyers. This article breaks down what a dynamic market is, how it benefits you as a buyer and how it differs from other forms of agreements. What is a dynamic […]
How open frameworks benefit public sector buyers
Under Public Contracts Regulations 2015 regulations, Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework agreements operated as ‘closed’ frameworks. This means that once a framework is awarded, no new suppliers are able to join that agreement to offer products, goods or services to public sector buyers. They normally remain closed for a maximum period of 4 years (8 […]
What buyers need to know about the new National Procurement Policy Statement
The UK Government published a new National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) which came into effect on 24 February 2025 alongside the Procurement Act 2023. This strategic statement lays out the key objectives public sector organisations should look to achieve when they spend public money through procurement. Contracting authorities must “have regard” to the NPPS when […]