Microsoft Dynamics Partner

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 the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.

The real focus isn't just Microsoft Dynamics

Platform Housing Group isn't just looking for technical expertise in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Engagement and Power Platform.

They're seeking a partner who can support their digital transformation journey.

One who understands their business needs and can provide solutions that drive efficiency and improve customer service.

The contract covers ongoing support and development services.

It's not just about maintaining what's there.

It's about enhancing and evolving their systems to better serve their residents.

Think about the residents

Yes, this is an IT contract.

But the ultimate beneficiaries are the residents of Platform Housing Group.

If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for a partner who understands the impact of technology on service delivery.

How will your solutions make a difference to the residents' experience?

How will they improve the efficiency of service delivery?

These are the questions I'd want answered.

Don't just talk about technical capability

Every bidder will talk about their technical skills.

What's more important is how those skills translate into real-world benefits for Platform Housing Group.

I'd focus on how you can help them achieve their strategic goals.

Use examples and case studies to illustrate your points.

Show how your work has led to tangible improvements in similar settings.

Pay attention to what they say

Platform Housing Group isn't just after a service provider.

They want a partner.

This means collaboration is key.

They've highlighted the importance of understanding their business needs.

So, demonstrate how you'll work alongside them to develop solutions that align with their objectives.

They've also mentioned the need for ongoing support.

This isn't a one-off project.

It's a long-term relationship.

Evidence always beats promises

One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder claimed to deliver excellent service.

Very few proved it.

If you have evidence, use it.

  • Successful projects with similar organisations
  • Testimonials from satisfied clients
  • Metrics showing improvements achieved
  • Awards or recognitions in your field

These are the things that will set you apart.

Show how you'll make life easier for Platform Housing Group

Every contract creates work for the client.

The best contractors reduce that workload.

Explain how your processes and support structures will make things easier for the Group's IT and management teams.

How will you ensure smooth communication?

What systems do you have in place for addressing issues quickly?

Think about the ease of working together, not just the end product.

Long-term consistency is crucial

This isn't just about getting off to a good start.

Platform Housing Group needs consistency over the term of the contract.

Staffing.

Not just your team's expertise, but their continuity.

What happens when key team members are on annual leave or sick?

How will you ensure knowledge isn't lost?

Detail your strategies for maintaining high standards throughout the contract.

One thing I'd keep reminding myself

Remember, this isn't just about technology.

It's about people.

Residents and staff who rely on these systems every day.

As you write your bid, keep asking yourself:

"How will this make a difference to the people using it?"

That's the real test of a successful project.

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

  • Focus solely on technical specifications without linking to business outcomes
  • Lack clear examples of past successes in similar environments
  • Ignore the importance of ongoing collaboration and partnership
  • Fail to address how you'll support the Group's strategic aims
  • Do not provide evidence of reliability and consistency over time
  • Overlook the impact on the end users — the residents and staff

My Final Thoughts

Platform Housing Group is looking for more than just technical expertise.

They're seeking a partner who understands the bigger picture.

One who can help them leverage Microsoft Dynamics to improve service delivery and resident satisfaction.

The contract is valued at £500,000, so there's a significant opportunity here.

But remember, it's not just about price.

The quality of your written submission will be key.

Focus on demonstrating how you can make a real difference.

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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