Enterprise Geospatial Licensed Maps & Data
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real focus isn't just maps
National Grid isn't just buying maps or geospatial data.
They're buying a transformation in how they handle data across their business units.
The contract is about unifying a fragmented system into a single, cohesive enterprise-wide model.
This means your proposal should focus on how you'll deliver this transformation, not just the mechanics of supplying data.
The contract covers the supply, licensing and support of core geospatial datasets through a software platform, enabling access to both premium and open datasets.
Don't just promise efficiency. Prove it.
National Grid's current decentralised approach has led to inefficiencies.
They want to change that.
They're looking for a partner who can show, not just tell, how they'll eliminate duplication and improve data reuse.
I'd include examples of past projects where you've streamlined data management and achieved cost reductions.
Evidence always beats promises.
- Case studies with quantifiable outcomes
- Testimonials from similar organisations
- Demonstrations of your software platform's capabilities
- Clear metrics on efficiency improvements
Think about data governance, not just supply
A big part of this tender is governance.
National Grid wants stronger governance across all geospatial data.
Your response should highlight how you'll establish a governance model that ensures consistency and reliability.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to know:
- How you'll manage and standardise access
- What systems you'll put in place to avoid duplication
- Your approach to maintaining high-quality data standards
Pay attention to what they say
National Grid's objectives are clear.
They want to "replace fragmented, project-led data purchasing with standardized, centrally managed access."
This phrase isn't just filler.
It's the heart of the tender.
Your bid should focus on how your solution will provide standardised, centralised access to geospatial data.
They've also mentioned the importance of "visibility, control and availability" — these are the pillars your proposal should rest on.
Show how you'll make life easier for National Grid
Every supplier should aim to reduce the client's workload.
National Grid wants improved commercial outcomes and enterprise-wide data reuse.
I'd be explaining how my solution will simplify their processes and reduce their workload.
How will your software platform make data access and management easier?
That's what they'll want to know.
Address the risk of inconsistent data quality
The current system has led to "variable quality" in datasets.
Your proposal should address how you'll ensure consistent data quality across all business units.
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that inconsistent quality often created more work for the client.
I'd want to see a clear plan for monitoring and maintaining data quality.
Consider the end users
National Grid's team will be using your platform daily.
Your submission should remember these end users.
How user-friendly is your platform?
What's your track record on customer support?
Think about the people who will interact with your solution and how you'll support them throughout the contract.
Show your understanding of geospatial data
National Grid needs a supplier who understands the intricacies of geospatial data.
Your response should demonstrate your expertise in this field.
- Experience working with ordnance survey, natural resources and environmental datasets
- Technical capabilities of your platform
- Any unique features that set your solution apart
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus purely on the data supply without addressing governance and management
- Fail to provide concrete examples of past efficiencies achieved
- Ignore the need for a user-friendly platform
- Overlook the importance of consistent data quality
- Promise outcomes without evidence or case studies
- Neglect the buyer's clear focus on centralised access
- Miss the opportunity to demonstrate understanding of National Grid's specific challenges
My Final Thoughts
National Grid is looking for more than just data.
They're looking for a partner to help unify and govern their entire geospatial data approach.
This contract runs from March 2027 to March 2030, with potential extension to 2032.
The duration means they'll want confidence in your ability to maintain standards and deliver value over the long term.
The absence of a contract value suggests quality and governance are the buyer's priorities — your written submission needs to focus on these themes.
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.