What’s the DPS Framework and Why Is It Important?

Introduction

In the UK’s procurement landscape, the DPS framework (Dynamic Purchasing System) has become a key tool for organisations seeking efficient, flexible, and compliant supplier engagement. Businesses, local authorities, and public sector bodies rely on DPS frameworks to streamline procurement while maintaining competition and transparency.

For businesses like Inprova, understanding and leveraging the DPS framework is crucial for optimising procurement strategies, improving supplier relationships, and ensuring compliance with UK procurement laws.

In this article, we’ll explore what the DPS framework is, how it works, and why it plays an essential role in procurement.

What Is a DPS Framework?

A Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) is a procurement tool used by public sector organisations to purchase goods, services, and works efficiently. Unlike traditional frameworks, a DPS framework remains open to new suppliers throughout its duration, promoting continuous competition and market access.

Key Features of a DPS Framework:

• Flexibility: New suppliers can join at any time, unlike traditional frameworks that lock in suppliers for a fixed period.
• Fully Electronic Process: The entire system operates electronically, making it streamlined and efficient.
• Ongoing Competition: Buyers can issue tenders for specific contracts, encouraging suppliers to submit competitive bids.
• Compliance with UK Procurement Law: DPS frameworks must adhere to The Public Contracts Regulations 2015, ensuring transparency and fairness.

A DPS framework is particularly useful in sectors like construction, social care, facilities management, and IT services, where new suppliers frequently enter the market.

How Does a DPS Framework Work?

The DPS framework operates in two main stages:

1. Setting Up the DPS

• A contracting authority (e.g., a government body, local council, or housing association) advertises a DPS framework.
• Suppliers apply to join by submitting qualification documents that prove they meet the criteria.
• Unlike traditional frameworks, there is no limit to the number of suppliers that can be approved.

2. Awarding Contracts Under a DPS

• Once suppliers are accepted into the DPS framework, contracting authorities issue call-off contracts (mini-competitions).
• Approved suppliers are invited to submit bids for specific projects or services.
• The most competitive bids (based on price, quality, and compliance) win the contracts.

This ongoing, competitive process ensures buyers always get the best value for money while giving suppliers continuous access to opportunities.

Why Is the DPS Framework Important?

The DPS framework offers several advantages to both buyers and suppliers. Here’s why it’s a critical tool in UK procurement:

1. Increases Supplier Opportunities

For businesses, particularly SMEs, DPS frameworks provide an accessible route to public sector contracts. Unlike closed frameworks that limit competition, DPS systems allow new suppliers to apply at any time, ensuring fair access to government and local authority contracts.

2. Promotes Fair and Transparent Procurement

Public sector procurement in the UK must comply with legal regulations, ensuring that contracts are awarded fairly. A DPS framework supports this by:

• Encouraging continuous supplier participation.
• Enforcing transparent selection criteria.
• Ensuring non-discriminatory procurement processes.

3. Improves Cost Efficiency

By fostering ongoing competition, DPS frameworks drive down costs. Buyers can compare bids in real-time and award contracts to the most competitive suppliers, leading to cost savings and better value for money.

4. Encourages Innovation and Market Responsiveness

Because new suppliers can join at any time, buyers benefit from fresh innovations, new technologies, and evolving market trends. This is particularly useful in fast-moving industries like IT, healthcare, and construction.

5. Supports Sustainability and Social Value

Many DPS frameworks incorporate sustainability and social value criteria, ensuring that suppliers align with green initiatives and ethical business practices. This is increasingly important in public procurement strategies across the UK.

How Inprova Helps Businesses Navigate DPS Frameworks

As a trusted procurement specialist, Inprova supports businesses and public sector organisations in leveraging DPS frameworks effectively. Our expertise ensures:

• Smooth Supplier Onboarding: We help businesses understand qualification criteria and submit strong applications.
• Procurement Compliance: Ensuring adherence to The Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and other UK procurement laws.
• Strategic Procurement Advice: Assisting organisations in developing procurement strategies that maximise cost savings and efficiency.
• Access to a Wide Network: Connecting buyers and suppliers through tailored DPS framework solutions.

Whether you’re a supplier looking to secure public contracts or a buyer seeking a compliant and efficient procurement process, Inprova can provide expert guidance and support.

Conclusion

The DPS framework is a game-changer in UK procurement, offering flexibility, transparency, and cost-efficiency. Its open-access model allows new suppliers to join at any time, ensuring continuous market competition and innovation.

For businesses and public sector organisations, understanding how to navigate and leverage DPS frameworks is key to maximising procurement success. Whether you’re a supplier seeking new contract opportunities or a buyer looking to streamline procurement, Inprova can help you make the most of the DPS framework.

Need expert guidance on DPS frameworks? Contact Inprova today to learn how we can support your procurement strategy.