Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS)

A Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) is an open market solution designed to provide public sector buyers with access to a pool of pre-qualified suppliers for works, goods and services. Our DPSs cover works in relation to refurbishment, repair, maintenance and energy efficiency.  

A DPS is more flexible than a framework and is open to any supplier who meets a minimum criteria. New suppliers can also join at any time throughout the duration of the DPS. Buyers can use a DPS for projects quickly and efficiently without the need to undertake a full tender process.  

Projects via a DPS are awarded through a mini-competition, a more specific call-off process allowing the pre-approved suppliers to bid for specific projects under the scope of the DPS.

All of our DPS solutions are compliant with Public Contracts Regulations (PCR) 2015 and are listed on Contracts Finder and the In-tend portal.  

Provided by: 

As an open market solution, a DPS provides a flexible option for suppliers to join with no application time limit or maximum number of suppliers. Clients have access to a wide number of pre-qualified suppliers and have the ability to use their own T&C’s, pricing and specification.

 

“DPS solutions offer a valuable alternative to frameworks for both clients and suppliers who are looking for a more flexible approach to procurement. The innovative nature of a DPS permits new market entrants over time and access in many different forms offering significant benefits to both parties. By providing an open gateway to a breadth of works, goods, products and services, our DPS solutions can foster transparency, encourage innovation and increase healthy competition.”  

Graham Collie, Interim Head of TPO and Supplier Engagement, LHCPG  

Benefits of using a DPS

Time saving

Quick and easy access to approved suppliers

Compliance

Confidence that you have access to pre-qualified trades with the right qualifications, experience and financial standing to deliver your project

Quality and value

Only suppliers who offer quality and value are pre-qualified

Choice

Access to a wide number of pre-qualified suppliers

Local delivery

Offers the opportunity to engage with local suppliers supporting the wider Government aim of working with local businesses for economic growth

Section 20 consultation

A DPS makes it easier for clients to comply with leaseholder consultations by allowing leaseholder nominated trades with an opportunity to apply to join the DPS and if successful an opportunity to bid for work

How does a DPS differ from a Framework?

Framework

  • Maximum duration of 4 years
  • Direct award permissible
  • Fixed list of suppliers
  • Call-off documents have to be in line with what was structured when establishing the framework
  • Typically harder for small medium enterprises to access
  • Finite number of suppliers

DPS

  • No maximum time limit
  • No direct award (further competition only)
  • Flexible - suppliers can join during the lifetime of the DPS
  • Allows Clients to use their own T&Cs, pricing and specification   
  • Increased accessibility for small medium enterprises
  • No maximum number of suppliers

Eligibility to use a DPS 

A Dynamic Purchasing System can be used by local authorities, social landlords and other public sector bodies to procure solutions for the construction, refurbishment and maintenance of social housing, schools and public buildings.  

The specific classes of public sector organisation authorised to use the framework include, but are not limited to: 

  • Local Authorities and any subsidiaries and joint venture vehicles of those Local Authorities 
  • Housing Associations and other Registered Social Landlords (RSLs)
  • Health Authorities, Councils, Boards and Trusts
  • Publicly funded schools
  • Universities, colleges and other further education establishments 
  • Police authorities
  • Fire and Rescue services
  • Registered charities
  • Government departments

Client Resources - How to use a DPS

View PDF

Supplier Resources

1. How can suppliers apply?

2. A guide to completing your DPS application

3. Apply on In-tend

4. The process of bidding for work from LHC Clients

Register as a supplier today

You can keep up-to-date with LHC’s new DPS releases by registering your details on the InTend eTendering Portal.

Register here

Alternatively, all of our current opportunities can be viewed here.

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