Buying Solutions Framework Agreement: Three Minute Guide
Who are Buying Solutions?
Buying Solutions is the national procurement partner for UK public services – An executive agency of the Office of Government Commerce in the Treasury. (OGC focuses on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of central civil Government procurement.)
What are the benefits of using the Commoditised IT Hardware and Software framework agreement?
This framework agreement gives customers ready access to appointed suppliers with a track record. Customers will enjoy:
• A fast, efficient, EU-compliant route to market
• Standard, pre-agreed terms and conditions
• Expert advice and guidance on using the framework agreement
• Operational support
• Provision of management information
• Benchmarking activity to ensure continued value for money
• Supplier management and audit
• Shared information on best practice
What is a framework agreement?
A framework agreement is a contractual vehicle that allows purchasers to order goods or services under the terms and conditions specified in the framework agreement. Buying Solutions enters into a framework agreement with suppliers so that purchasers in the public sector may obtain value for money in their purchasing whilst being assured that their procurement is compliant with UK and EU legislation. The evaluation criteria used in the competitions for award of framework agreements are designed to ensure they are awarded to suppliers submitting the most economically advantageous tenders, taking into account attributes including price; quality; capacity and track record. Using framework agreements saves time and money for purchasers and ensures that the terms and conditions of their contract are robust and follow best practice.
Who can use Buying Solutions framework agreements?
Any UK public sector contracting authority can procure through Buying Solutions’ framework agreements. This includes the following sectors: local government, central government, police, security services, the NHS, education, and charities who receive government funding. If you are unsure of your status and eligibility to buy under this framework agreement, contact us for further assistance.
What framework agreement can customers use through Civica?
The Commoditised IT Hardware and Software framework agreement (Lot 3 – Specialist Channel Partner for Software). This replaces the previous ‘IT Goods & Associated Services’ framework.
What does this framework agreement cover?
Lot 3 – Specialist Channel Partners for Software: The supply of the full range of commercial and open source off-the-shelf software, software licences and associated software services including software asset management. This can also cover services directly related to software including:
• Pre-sales support, i.e. for specification clarification
• Advice and provision of Information Assurance products
• Delivery
• Software Asset Management
• Imaging
• Warehousing
• Extended warranties
• Installation
• Configuration
• Maintenance services
• Support, helpdesk and training
• Post sales support
What is the duration of this framework agreement?
Three and a half years. The expiry date is 28th August 2013
How can customers access this framework agreement?
Customers can purchase from this framework agreement, using the Catalogue Ordering process via Buying Solutions’ website (www.buyingsolutions.gov.uk), or by conducting a Further Competition using the online Invitation to Quote facility on the website. Guidance documents on how to use this framework agreement are available to customers on the Buying Solutions website. Documents and pricing can be accessed by first registering as a customer on the site. This is free of charge and there is no commitment to order goods or services.
