The Procure 21 Framework Agreement: What You Need to Know
The Procure 21 Framework Agreement is a collaborative procurement system that has been used in the construction industry for over a decade. It was designed to streamline the procurement process and ensure that projects are delivered efficiently, on-time, and within budget.
Under the framework, the UK Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) contracts with a small number of principal supply chain partners (PSCs). These PSCs then deliver construction projects for NHS clients across England. The framework is designed to provide value for money, encourage collaboration, and ensure quality and consistency across the projects.
The framework is divided into three main categories: minor works, intermediate projects, and major capital projects. Minor works projects are those with a value of up to £1.5 million, while intermediate projects have a value of up to £20 million. Major capital projects are those with a value of over £20 million.
The Procure 21 Framework Agreement is based on a two-stage tender process. The first stage is the pre-qualification questionnaire, which assesses the bidder’s experience, financial stability, and capability. The second stage is the invitation to tender, which assesses the bidder’s proposed solution, price, and approach.
Once a PSC has been selected, they work closely with the NHS client to develop a project brief and delivery strategy. This includes developing a design solution, estimating costs, and identifying risks and opportunities. The PSC also manages the construction process, ensuring that the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
One of the key benefits of the Procure 21 Framework Agreement is that it encourages collaboration between the PSCs and the NHS clients. This helps to create a more efficient and effective procurement process, as well as ensuring that the project is delivered to the client’s requirements.
Another significant advantage of the framework is that it provides a high level of consistency across the projects. This is achieved through the use of standard documentation, procedures, and processes, which helps to reduce risk and ensure quality.
In conclusion, the Procure 21 Framework Agreement is a collaborative procurement system that has been used successfully in the construction industry for over a decade. It provides value for money, encourages collaboration, and ensures quality and consistency across the projects. If you are involved in the procurement of construction projects in the UK, it is worth considering the Procure 21 Framework Agreement as a potential option.