What are frameworks?

A procurement framework is an arrangement whereby an organisation (in our case SEC) identifies a shortlist of suppliers who are able to deliver certain works / services. When setting up a framework we set the specification and check suppliers for quality, price and financial standing. The highest scoring suppliers are then awarded to join the framework.

Once the framework is awarded it’s closed for four years. During this time customers are able to “call off” individual contracts from the framework.

Any publically funded body can use our frameworks – this includes housing associations, local authorities, universities and NHS bodies.

What are the benefits?

When using a SEC framework to procure works and services:

  • You’ll save time – sometimes up to 12 months when compared to running the procurement in-house
  • You’ll benefit from increased buying power / economies of scale
  • You’ll gain access to our intelligent specifications and cost models
  • SEC will support you with each stage of the process and ensure you’re compliant
  • You have two different contract award options – direct award to the top-ranked supplier or carrying out a mini tender amongst all successful suppliers
  • You’ll also benefit from our supplier due diligence – all suppliers on our frameworks are regularly checked for their financial standing etc.

How do we procure our frameworks?

  • Stage 1: Framework Scoping

    When procuring SEC frameworks we spend the time upfront consulting with Members and the market. This helps us to identify works and services for future frameworks.

    We also keep up to date with current and future legislation – and monitor any changes which will affect the sector.

  • Stage 2: Design

    Before going to tender with any new framework we will design a detailed specification and cost model to support it. The  specification details which works or services are being procured, whilst the cost model helps us to deliver the best value for money and comparisons between bidders.

  • Stage 3: Public Tender

    We’ll then publish the tender documents on myTenders and the Governments Find A Tender Service. We’ll set a deadline for responses which takes into consideration complexity and the time taken for bidders to find out the relevant information.

  • Stage 4: Evaluation

    Once the deadline has passed we review each tender in detail. We then begin evaluating the quality and price submissions. Our frameworks are usually tendered with a cost / quality split of 40% cost and 60% quality.  To help us evaluate quality we use a panel of experts from Members and those with housing experience.

  • Stage 5: Award

    Once we have finalised the evaluation stage and carried out financial checks on each bidder – we will award the framework. Successful bidders will always be the top ranked service providers after we’ve compiled each score. We’ll produce a detailed tender report which explains the weighted scores and companies we have appointed.

  • Stage 6: Framework is live

    After we award a new framework it is live for four years. No new bidders can join the framework. During this time customers can “call off” individual contracts under the framework. We’re able to assist you at each stage of the call-off process.

    We’ll monitor the framework closely over its lifetime to ensure contractor standing and cost viability.