Low Code No Code Platform
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The biggest clue in this tender isn't the platform
When I look at this tender from Thames Water, it's clear they're not just buying a platform.
They're buying a transformation.
A way to enable business-led innovation across the entire organisation.
The contract is about implementing a Low-Code/No-Code (LCNC) platform from 1 February 2027 to 2030, extendable to 2032. With a value of £1,000,000, this is a significant investment to modernise how applications, workflows and business solutions are developed.
And it's the innovation that stands out.
Think about who will use the platform
Thames Water isn't just a utility company.
It's a complex organisation with diverse needs.
If I were writing this tender, I'd focus on how the platform will empower both IT teams and business users.
They want collaboration to drive continuous improvement.
I'd want to know how the platform will let people from different departments create solutions that fit their unique challenges.
Don't underestimate the importance of security
One of the biggest risks with digital transformation is security.
Thames Water is clear about needing enterprise-grade governance and security controls.
This isn't just about ticking a box.
It's about embedding security into the DNA of the platform.
Role-based access controls, integration with identity management solutions — these are non-negotiables.
Pay attention to what they say
Thames Water spells out that integration is crucial.
They want seamless integration with their existing systems like SAP, Microsoft 365 and Salesforce.
That means your response should show exactly how your platform can connect with these technologies.
Not just in theory, but in practice.
Evidence always beats promises
I've seen many bids promise the world and deliver little.
What Thames Water will want to see is evidence.
Evidence that your platform has successfully enabled enterprise-wide innovation elsewhere.
Evidence that it can improve operational efficiency through automation and AI-assisted development.
- Case studies from similar projects
- Testimonials from existing clients
- Performance metrics and success stories
These are the proofs that carry weight.
Remember the people behind the processes
The platform isn't just a tool.
It's something that affects real people every day.
I'd keep reminding myself that the ultimate aim is to make life easier for Thames Water's employees.
To reduce manual effort and free up time for more valuable tasks.
That's what this transformation is about.
Consistency over the contract term
Delivering a platform like this isn't just about the launch.
It's about maintaining standards throughout the entire contract term.
From 2027 to potentially 2032, the platform needs to remain stable, performant and supported.
I'd want to show how I plan to ensure ongoing support, updates and training.
Show how you'll make life easier for Thames Water
Every contract creates work.
The best suppliers minimise it.
I'd be explaining how my platform simplifies processes for Thames Water.
How it reduces the need for manual intervention.
How it supports operational efficiency and continuous improvement.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Ignore the importance of collaboration between IT and business users
- Overlook the need for robust security and governance controls
- Fail to demonstrate integration capabilities with existing systems
- Rely solely on promises without providing evidence
- Neglect the importance of ongoing support and updates
- Underestimate the complexity of Thames Water's organisational structure
My Final Thoughts
Thames Water is looking for more than a software solution.
They're looking for a partner in transformation.
With a contract value of £1,000,000 and a term that could extend to 2032, this is about long-term innovation and efficiency.
Quality and integration will be the focal points.
Your written submission should reflect that, showing how your platform meets these needs now and in the future.
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.