Economic analysis of access applications
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Think Beyond the Analysis
When I look at this tender, I see more than a call for economic analysis.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) isn't just seeking number crunchers.
They need partners who understand the complexity of the rail network and the broader implications of access decisions.
This contract involves supporting ORR in their assessment of track access rights for four individual applications.
Your role will be to provide economic insights into how these applications affect performance, safety, competition and public funds.
Remember the Human Impact
Behind every access decision are real-life implications.
Operators, passengers and the wider public all stand to be affected by the outcomes of these applications.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for submissions that demonstrate a deep understanding of these human and operational impacts.
It's not just about the numbers.
It's about how those numbers translate into real-world changes.
Evidence Over Promises
One thing I learned in the public sector is that evidence always beats promises.
For this tender, you'll need to back up your claims with solid evidence.
Consider including:
- Case studies of similar consultancy work
- Testimonials from previous clients
- Demonstrations of how your analysis has influenced decision-making
- Data that supports your methodologies
Pay Attention to What They Say
The ORR has been clear about what matters in this contract.
They need a thorough understanding of the "availability of capacity, impact on performance and safety, competition and the impact on Secretary of State's funds".
These are the key themes your submission should address.
Each section of your response should reflect how your analysis will tackle these areas.
The Weight of Economic Insight
Your economic analysis will play a pivotal role in ORR's decision-making process.
If I were writing this tender, I'd ensure my submission clearly lays out how my insights will help ORR balance their duties under the Railways Act 1993.
This isn't just about providing data.
It's about delivering strategic insights that help ORR make informed decisions.
Show Your Understanding of Rail Regulation
The Railways Act 1993 and ORR's duties are central to this tender.
Your team needs to show a comprehensive understanding of these regulatory frameworks.
It's not enough to just mention them.
You need to demonstrate how your analysis directly relates to ORR's regulatory responsibilities.
Consistency Across the Contract Term
A one-off analysis won't cut it for this tender.
ORR needs consistent, reliable analysis across the entire contract term from 9 November 2026 to 8 November 2027.
I'd want to see exactly how you plan to maintain standards throughout the year.
Highlight your processes for quality assurance, regular updates and handling any unforeseen issues.
One Thing I'd Keep Reminding Myself
This contract is about more than just data.
It's about the strategic role your analysis will play in shaping access decisions that impact the entire rail network.
I'd keep asking myself, "How does my work make ORR's decision-making easier and more effective?"
That's the question to test every part of your submission against.
Common Mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on data without context
- Ignore the human and operational impacts of access decisions
- Lack evidence of past success in similar projects
- Overlook the importance of regulatory frameworks
- Fail to address the specific themes ORR has highlighted
- Neglect to outline processes for maintaining quality over the contract term
My Final Thoughts
ORR is looking for more than just consultants.
They need partners who can deliver deep economic insights that support their regulatory duties.
With a contract value of £95,000 and a one-year duration, your ability to demonstrate strategic importance and reliability will be crucial.
Quality isn't just about the numbers.
It's about how those numbers are used to make informed, impactful decisions.
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.