Media Monitoring 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 September 2026

A practical guide to understanding what the Senedd really wants and how to build a winning response.

Think about what the Senedd is really buying

The Senedd isn't just buying software.

They're buying insight.

The kind of insight that helps them understand the impact of their communications and engage effectively with the public.

Yes, you're providing media monitoring, press office management and social media tools.

But what they're really looking for is a partner who can help them listen, understand and respond to the conversations that matter across Wales.

This contract covers four distinct lots, allowing you to bid for one or multiple systems depending on your strengths.

Pay attention to what they say

One thing stands out in the notice.

The importance of "understanding the reach, impact and effectiveness" of communications.

This isn't just about gathering data.

It's about providing analysis that the Senedd can act on.

If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for solutions that don't just deliver raw data but translate it into meaningful insights.

Consider how your software can help them monitor public sentiment and media discussion.

That's where the real value lies.

Evidence always beats promises

I've seen many bids that promise the world but fail to back it up with evidence.

Don't make that mistake.

If you have case studies or testimonials showing how your software has improved media monitoring or social engagement for other clients, now's the time to use them.

  • Quantifiable improvements in communication reach
  • Examples of successful public engagement strategies
  • Demonstrations of user-friendly interfaces
  • Proven integration with existing systems

These are the kinds of evidence that will make your bid stand out.

Think about the people using your software

Remember, your end users are likely to be press office staff, social media managers and analysts.

What do they need?

Simplicity.

Efficiency.

Accurate reporting.

I'd focus on how your software can make their jobs easier.

Show how it streamlines processes and saves time.

That's what will win them over.

Don't just sell features. Sell solutions.

It's easy to get caught up in listing features.

But features don't solve problems. Solutions do.

The Senedd will want to know how your software addresses their specific challenges.

How does it support engagement across Wales?

What makes it better at monitoring media discussions than other products?

That's what I'd be emphasising.

Show how you'll make life easier for the Senedd

Every new system comes with a learning curve.

The best solutions minimise that curve.

If I were writing this tender, I'd be explaining how my software is easy to implement and use.

Training, support and integration with existing systems are crucial.

The more seamless the transition, the better.

Remember the importance of reliability

Software that's unreliable is worse than no software at all.

If I were the buyer, I'd be concerned about uptime and support.

Make sure you detail your service level agreements.

How quickly do you respond to issues?

What support is available?

These are the assurances the Senedd will be looking for.

Consider multi-lot strategies

With the procurement structured into four lots, strategic bidding is essential.

Are you best placed to bid for all four?

Or should you focus on one or two where you truly excel?

The right choice could make or break your submission.

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

  • Focus too much on features rather than solutions
  • Lack evidence of past success
  • Overlook the importance of user training and support
  • Fail to address reliability and uptime
  • Ignore the specific needs of the Senedd's communication goals
  • Assume the lowest price wins without considering quality

My Final Thoughts

The Senedd is looking for a partner who can provide more than just software.

They need a solution that supports their communication strategy and enhances engagement across Wales.

With a contract value of £93,333 over four years, it's not just about price.

Quality matters.

If your submission focuses on delivering insight and ease of use, you'll stand a good chance.

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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