DSA - Phase II Website Design & Implementation
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real focus isn't the website
When you first look at this tender, it's easy to think it's all about web design.
But City of Doncaster Council is not just looking for a web developer.
They're looking for a partner who can support the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) with a user-centred, accessible and secure website.
This project isn't just about aesthetics or functionality.
It's about creating a digital platform that helps manage the public narrative and supports an operational airport.
The contract covers designing, developing and implementing a website for DSA, starting from 9 November 2026, with an option to extend up to 2032.
Don't just design. Help them tell their story.
Most web developers will talk about design tools, frameworks and responsive layouts.
But that's just the surface.
This project is about helping Fly Doncaster communicate effectively with stakeholders and the public.
I'd focus on how you can help shape the narrative around the airport's reopening.
Think about storytelling elements.
How will you ensure the website reflects the hopes and ambitions of Doncaster Sheffield Airport?
Accessibility isn't a checkbox
One thing that stands out in this tender is the emphasis on accessibility.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for a commitment to making the website usable for everyone.
Not just compliance with accessibility standards.
Real-world examples of how you've made other websites accessible.
Commitment to continuous improvement in accessibility over the contract term.
Pay attention to what they say
The buyer is very clear about their priorities.
They want a "user-centred, accessible and secure" website.
Quality is key here.
The council isn't just ticking boxes.
They're looking for a partner who understands the importance of these elements in supporting an operational airport.
I'd make sure my submission speaks directly to these priorities.
Security matters more than ever
In today's digital world, security can't be an afterthought.
City of Doncaster Council is looking for a partner who can ensure the website is secure from day one.
Think about the security measures you will implement.
What evidence do you have of successfully securing other websites?
Think about the users
The end users are diverse.
Travellers, airport staff, stakeholders and the general public all need to access relevant information.
Your design should cater to this wide audience.
I'd ensure my proposal highlights how the website will meet the needs of each user group.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder promised the earth.
Very few proved they could deliver.
If you have evidence of successfully delivering similar projects, now's the time to showcase it.
- Case studies of previous work with airports or similar organisations
- User testimonials or feedback from past projects
- Metrics demonstrating the impact of your work
Consistency over the whole term
One challenge with long-term contracts is maintaining standards.
I'd want to see exactly how you plan to keep the website fresh, secure and accessible over the four-year term, possibly extending to six years.
How will you handle updates, security patches and user feedback?
What processes do you have in place to ensure ongoing compliance with accessibility standards?
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
This isn't just a website.
It's a digital front door to Doncaster Sheffield Airport.
Every decision should be tested against one question: "Does this help support an operational airport and manage the public narrative?"
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on design without addressing user needs
- Ignore the importance of accessibility and security
- Fail to provide concrete evidence of past success
- Overlook the need for ongoing maintenance and updates
- Neglect the role of the website in supporting airport operations
- Assume one-size-fits-all solutions for diverse users
My Final Thoughts
City of Doncaster Council is looking for more than just a web development service.
They're looking for a partner who can help relaunch Doncaster Sheffield Airport with a strong digital presence.
With a contract value of £100,000 and a duration extending potentially to 2032, the focus on quality, user-centred design and security means your written submission carries significant weight.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
Kim
Founder, Bid Trawler
P.S. - Got a Question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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View the Full Contract & Exclusive Inside View on BidTrawler →
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
Ready to decide whether this contract is worth bidding?
View the opportunity on Bid Trawler and access everything you need to make an informed decision, including the full tender information, direct access to the tender documents, the current supplier, who's winning similar contracts, who else may be bidding, buyer intelligence, our exclusive Inside View, your personalised Winnability Score and an AI-powered contract review.
View the Full Contract & Exclusive Inside View on Bid Trawler →About our "How to Win This Contract" guides
Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.