E-Visit Software

Kim Frater, founder of Bid Trawler
Written by Kim Frater
Former Public Sector Buyer • Founder of Bid Trawler • 40+ years' public sector experience
"I believe public procurement shouldn't be complicated. Every guide I write explains the process in plain English so you can bid with confidence."

3 minute read  •  Updated August 2026

A practical guide to understanding what Gloucestershire County Council really wants and how to build a winning response.

This isn't just about software

When I look at this tender, what stands out is that Gloucestershire County Council isn't just buying software.

They're buying a solution that will make virtual visits effective and seamless.

It's easy to focus on the technical capabilities of the software.

But what they're really interested in is how this software will enhance communication and interaction.

The contract is for Software as a Service, valued at £15,000.

Think about the end users

Remember, the end users here are likely to be council staff and possibly service users.

They'll be looking for a platform that's intuitive and user-friendly.

Most bidders will focus on the technical specs.

I'd focus on the user experience.

If I were writing this tender, I'd emphasise how easy the software is to use and how it improves their daily tasks.

Pay attention to what they say

It's clear from the tender details that the council prioritises a seamless experience.

They need software that integrates smoothly with existing systems.

I'd build my submission around showing how my software aligns with their current infrastructure and enhances it.

They've mentioned "effective communication" — that's a clue.

Evidence always beats promises

One thing I noticed in my public sector days was that many bidders would promise great outcomes but provide little proof.

If you've got examples of where your software has been successfully implemented, now's the time to use them.

  • Case studies with measurable outcomes
  • Testimonials from similar clients
  • Demonstrations of integration capabilities
  • User satisfaction surveys

Show them how you'll make their lives easier

Every new software system has a learning curve.

I'd explain how my implementation process minimizes disruption.

What training and support do you offer?

How do you handle queries and troubleshooting?

I'd want them to see that adopting my software won't add to their workload.

Don't underestimate the importance of reliability

Software can offer amazing features, but if it's unreliable, it won't be effective.

I'd focus on uptime, support and maintenance.

How will you ensure the software is always available when needed?

That's what I'd emphasise in my response.

Remember who you're trying to convince

Think about the council officers reviewing your bid.

They're not just technical experts.

They're likely thinking about budget, ease of use and long-term benefits.

Make sure your response speaks to these points.

Consistency throughout the contract term

It's one thing to launch well, but maintaining standards over the contract term is crucial.

I'd want to assure them that my software will continue to perform consistently.

Regular updates, ongoing support and clear communication plans are key.

One thing I'd keep reminding myself

Every section of your submission should answer a single question.

"How will this software improve the service delivery for Gloucestershire County Council?"

That's the lens I'd use to review every answer.

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

  • Overemphasise technical jargon without explaining benefits
  • Lack clear evidence of past success
  • Ignore integration with existing systems
  • Fail to address user support and training
  • Overlook long-term maintenance and updates
  • Assume the council is only interested in price
  • Focus solely on software features without user experience

My Final Thoughts

Gloucestershire County Council is looking for more than just a software package.

They want a partner in enhancing virtual communication.

The contract is valued at £15,000 and it's not just about getting the cheapest solution.

Quality and ease of integration carry weight.

That's what I'd focus on in the written submission.

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.

kim@bidtrawler.com

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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.

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