How to buy?

Rapid is proud to be a trusted government partner, belonging to key procurement frameworks including G-Cloud 13 and Digital Outcomes 6.

How to buy?
Photo by Tierra Mallorca / Unsplash

Buying frameworks – what are they and how do they work?

Procuring technology and services can be a complex and lengthy undertaking, often involving significant time, cost and resource. Buying frameworks are designed to simplify that process, enabling public sector organisations to procure services from pre-approved suppliers that are accredited and meet all of the expected standards and requirements.

With standardised contract terms compliant with public sector procurement regulations, buyers have peace of mind that they are partnering with a supplier that has been fully vetted and is capable of delivering the requirements.

Buyers have the option of running a mini-competition, or in many cases can direct award (‘call off’) when required, which is often the fastest way to procure services via a framework. Direct award means you can partner directly with the supplier that best suits the needs of your business and avoids the high cost, time and resource demanded by the traditional procurement process.

With a strong heritage as a trusted government partner, Rapid has the knowledge and experience of working with public sector frameworks and guiding buyers through the process. We understand the challenges and constraints uniquely faced by public sector organisations and with our expertise and market experience, we can help you in navigating the framework process to ensure a seamless, efficient and cost-effective outcome.

Key benefits

Simple and straightforward

Buying frameworks provide public sector organisations with a simple and trusted method to procure services that support their specific business needs.

Peace of mind

Suppliers must be fully accredited and pre-approved to list on government buying frameworks. Additionally, supplier contracts include performance management to ensure value and service continually evolves.

Robust frameworks

With standardised contract terms and conditions that comply with UK/EU procurement legislation, buyers can rest assured when it comes to due diligence.

Quick and efficient

With a straightforward and standardised process, buying frameworks can significantly reduce the procurement timescale, as well as the costs and resources involved compared to other procurement methods.

Market expertise

As experts in the market, Rapid is ideally placed to support your business through the procurement process, including navigating direct award and advice on contracting from our in-house legal counsel.

Framework agreements

G-Cloud 13 (RM1557.13)

G-Cloud 13 is the latest iteration of a government framework designed to make the process of procuring cloud hosting, software and support services cost-effective.

Digital Outcomes 6 (RM1043.8)

The Digital Outcomes 6 framework supports the public sector in purchasing bespoke digital solutions and services, replacing Digital Outcomes and Specialists 5.