NHM Data Improvements

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.

Focus on the Real Purpose

The Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) isn't just asking you to gather data.

They're asking you to provide a clearer picture of business waste in Northern Ireland.

This isn't about mere data collection.

It's about helping to shape policies and targets that align with the Circular Economy Package and the Climate Change Act.

You'll be conducting fieldwork, using WRAP's questionnaire to gather data from NI business units.

Think beyond the numbers.

Think about the impact your data will have on policy decisions.

Understand the Importance of On-Site Collection

The tender emphasises on-site data collection.

This means being present, observing and recording waste provisions at each business location.

It's not just about filling out a form.

It's about capturing the reality of waste management on the ground.

WRAP wants real, tangible insights.

If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for a comprehensive plan for conducting these site visits efficiently.

Detail how you'll manage logistics, access permissions and any potential challenges.

Improving Data Quality Matters

WRAP is open to additional methods to improve data quality.

This is your chance to shine.

Consider how you can enhance the data you collect.

Could you incorporate technology for more accurate data capture?

Or perhaps a method for cross-verifying the data collected?

Demonstrating innovative approaches will set your bid apart.

Pay Attention to What They Say

WRAP's goal is clear.

They're contributing to reaching ambitious recycling targets.

The 65% municipal recycling target by 2025 and the 70% by 2030 are significant milestones.

Your data could influence government policy.

That's no small task.

Make sure your response reflects your understanding of the importance of these targets.

Evidence Over Promises

In this sector, evidence always beats promises.

Show your experience in similar projects.

Have you previously conducted fieldwork or data collection for environmental purposes?

Use case studies, testimonials or performance metrics.

Demonstrate that you can deliver what you're promising.

Think About the End Users

The data you collect will inform WRAP and, ultimately, government policy.

Think about the policymakers who will use this data.

What will they need to see to trust the results?

Consider how you present your findings.

Clarity and accuracy are key.

The Challenge of Consistency

Consistency in data collection is crucial.

You're gathering data from multiple sites, which means variability.

How will you ensure that each site visit yields comparable data?

Detail your approach to training, monitoring and quality control.

I'd want to see a plan that ensures consistent data collection methods.

Remember the Bigger Picture

One thing I'd keep reminding myself is the broader impact of this work.

You're not just collecting data.

You're contributing to a national effort to improve recycling rates and sustainability.

That's a powerful motivator.

Keep that in mind as you craft your responses.

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

  • Overlook the importance of on-site data collection
  • Fail to propose methods for improving data quality
  • Ignore the significance of the recycling targets
  • Rely on vague promises instead of hard evidence
  • Lack a clear plan for consistent data collection
  • Underestimate the logistics of fieldwork
  • Neglect the presentation of findings for policymakers

My Final Thoughts

WRAP is looking for a partner who understands the weight of this project.

It's not just about gathering data.

It's about shaping the future of waste management policy.

The contract will extend your impact over time, and the quality of your submission is crucial.

Given the focus on environmental targets, the quality of your written submission could make all the 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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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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