Dynamic Purchasing System for the Provision of Training Services
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Think about what they're really buying
This isn't just about training services.
It's about flexibility, adaptability and delivering value across multiple councils.
Yes, it's a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) for Aberdeen City Council.
But it's open to Aberdeenshire and the Highland Council too.
That's a broad remit.
And it's not a single contract.
It's a chance to be on a list that supports training needs across different regions.
Understand the DPS
A DPS is a long-term agreement.
It's not a guarantee of work.
Winning a place means you're eligible for call-offs.
Each call-off is a contract that specifies the training required.
Winning a place on the DPS is the first step.
The opportunity is there for new suppliers to apply, as existing ones don't need to reapply.
Why the Lots matter
This DPS covers a range of training services.
The Lots will be specific to different types of training.
Don't spread yourself thin.
Focus on the Lots that align with your expertise.
The buyer wants to see confidence in your ability to deliver.
Pay attention to what they say
Aberdeen City Council is clear.
The DPS is extended for another year, until September 2027.
They want new suppliers to apply.
But they also want reliability.
A £14,000,000 value over 360 days is significant.
They expect quality and value.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I always noticed when I worked in the public sector was that evidence is key.
If you can demonstrate past successes, do it.
- Case studies
- Testimonials
- Performance metrics
- Examples of similar projects
That's what will set you apart.
How to stand out in a mini-competition
Winning a place on the DPS is just the start.
Each call-off will be a mini-competition.
Think about how you'll differentiate yourself.
- Tailoring your response to each call-off
- Demonstrating understanding of the regional needs
- Offering innovative solutions
These are crucial.
Direct awards and further competition
Once on the DPS, work can be awarded in two ways.
Direct award: when they pick you without further competition.
Further competition: when you compete with others on the DPS.
For direct awards, being known and trusted is key.
For further competition, speed and precision in your response matter.
Consistency over the term
Consistency is the hardest thing to deliver.
And it's what buyers worry about.
Staffing.
Training delivery.
Adaptability to different council needs.
If I were evaluating, I'd want to know your plan for maintaining standards.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Don't focus on specific Lots
- Lack evidence of past performance
- Overpromise without a clear delivery plan
- Ignore the regional scope of the DPS
- Fail to outline how you'll adapt to different council needs
- Miss the emphasis on quality and value
My Final Thoughts
Aberdeen City Council isn't just looking for training providers.
They're looking for partners who can deliver across different councils.
With a value of £14,000,000 and a term extended to September 2027, they need reliability.
The DPS is not for the lowest price, but for the best value.
Quality in your submission will be crucial.
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.
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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.