Feedback informs new construction opportunity for SMEs

Following extensive supply chain engagement on the Construction Professional Services framework, CCS’s team has reviewed its category strategy and is now planning an offer suited to regional SMEs. This is planned to go live at the same time as the Construction Professional Services framework in November 2021.

A new Dynamic Purchasing System

The Construction Professional Services framework proposal is designed to offer a wide portfolio of construction multi-discipline professional services across infrastructure and urban regeneration projects within the built environment at locations throughout the UK.

To complement the framework it is envisaged that the new, additional Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) will support the construction professional services market regionally and allow businesses of all disciplines and sizes, operating regionally, access to those opportunities. 

CCS Deputy Director of Construction, John Welch said:

The response to the initial Prior Information Notice raised questions as to the opportunities for SMEs to fulfil the framework’s national requirements.

The purpose of  going out to PIN is to set out our ideas for a new commercial agreement and to get feedback from businesses and  potential customers to shape the future framework.

Valid points were raised. We believe this framework requirement suits the bulk of the current and future client needs through our engagement and evaluation however we also recognise there is a client need to contract with more local, smaller and niche suppliers.

There has also been a commitment to developing the Construction Professional Services framework to offer opportunities to organisations of all sizes – including through a simplified pricing model.

Professional standards

The framework will  adopt the construction industry Common Assessment Standard (CAS) as the common evaluation criteria. This will reduce the need for suppliers to complete a variety of different pre-qualification questionnaires. The framework also has  the opportunity for all suppliers to join joint ventures or consortia in order to tender. 

The Construction Professional Services framework will be based on the FAC-1 Framework Alliance Contract standard form, which brings to life Government Construction Strategy recommendations in order to add value to our customers and the supply chain by promoting innovations and improved digital design contributions, driving more sustainable solutions and establishing effective risk management.

This approach compliments our existing portfolio of frameworks across all CCS construction categories, integrating solutions for the public sector in a collaborative way, and aligns to the new Construction Playbook.

Modern slavery and prompt payment

Although the professions likely to apply for the framework and DPS are considered low risk in regards to Modern Slavery all companies will be required to address the risk of Modern Slavery in their supply chain as part of CCS commitment to social value. 

Potential suppliers will also be asked to sign up to the prompt payment code and to comply with green sustainability aims while supporting the delivery of  government net zero carbon targets. 

Find out more

Market engagement sessions will be planned in the near future for the new DPS and advertised via a separate Prior Information Notice.

During future market engagement Crown Commercial Service will invite suggestions and feedback on the proposed structure of the DPS from the market including industry experts, specialists, suppliers and potential customers. 

The latest Prior Information Notice can be found on Tenders Electronic Daily.