University Staffing Whitepaper FINAL 27729 TA 191224 - Flipbook - Page 11
Making the most of specialist
procurement frameworks
Procurement frameworks, such as
YPO, TUCO, SUPC, LUPC, NWUPC,
and APUC, can also play a crucial
role in helping universities navigate
these challenges. These frameworks
provide a list of pre-approved suppliers
to simplify the procurement process
and potentially achieving cost savings
through collaborative purchasing. In an
environment where every penny counts,
these frameworks offer a practical
solution for universities to maximise
their resources.
This is because the framework has already completed
a comprehensive tender exercise in accordance with
public sector procurement rules. As a result, universities
can expedite their purchasing decisions and proceed
with con昀椀dence, knowing that the suppliers within the
framework have been vetted and approved.
When buying through a framework, universities have
two options: direct award and mini-competition. In the
case of direct award, universities can place their order
with the appointed suppliers without the need for further
competition. This approach offers convenience and
ef昀椀ciency, enabling universities to quickly acquire the goods
or services they require.
Whereas, mini-competition presents an opportunity
for universities to invite all capable suppliers within the
framework to bid for a speci昀椀c contract. This approach
allows universities to evaluate multiple proposals and select
the supplier that best meets their unique requirements.
In the UK higher education sector, several procurement
consortia collaborate to create and manage these
frameworks. Organisations such as YPO, TUCO, SUPC,
LUPC, and NWUPC, are examples of these consortia
that play a vital role in facilitating effective procurement
practices for universities. Through their collective efforts,
they contribute to the development and maintenance of
robust procurement frameworks that cater to the diverse
needs of the higher education sector.
One of the key advantages of
procurement frameworks is that
universities can purchase directly
from them without undergoing
a full tendering process each time.
Selecting the right procurement framework is crucial for
universities to optimise their procurement processes,
ensure compliance, and achieve cost ef昀椀ciencies. By
leveraging the expertise and resources provided by these
frameworks, universities can streamline their purchasing
procedures, access a wide range of suppliers, and make
informed decisions that align with their goals and priorities.
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