Sector research for councils to learn from collaborative ICT delivery in local government
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
This isn't just about ICT delivery
When you look at this tender, it's tempting to focus on the mechanics of ICT delivery.
But that's not what the Improvement and Development Agency for Local Government is really buying.
They want insights into what makes collaborative ICT projects work.
This isn't about the tech itself.
It's about how different councils can successfully work together.
The project covers a broad spectrum of collaborative arrangements, including lead authority models and partnership arrangements.
Think about the power of collaboration
At the heart of this research is collaboration.
Councils working together to achieve better outcomes for their communities.
If I were evaluating this tender, I'd want to know how you plan to uncover the dynamics of successful collaboration.
It's not just about identifying the right models.
It's about understanding the human factors that make these models work.
Are you looking at decision-making processes?
Accountability structures?
How different organisations manage to align their goals?
That's what will stand out.
Pay attention to what they say
The buyer is clear about their priorities.
They want to understand "the practical factors" that contribute to successful ICT delivery across multiple councils.
This means your response should focus on tangible outcomes.
Not just theories.
What evidence can you provide that shows you can identify these factors?
What practical experience do you have in analysing collaborative structures?
They also want to know about the arrangements that support effective operations.
So, how will you address this in your research?
Evidence always beats promises
If I were writing this tender, I'd be looking for solid evidence over promises.
Case studies of previous research into collaborative models.
Examples of successful ICT collaborations.
Testimonials from councils you've worked with.
These will carry more weight than vague assurances of capability.
What most bidders will overlook
Many bidders will focus on formal shared service models.
But the tender specifically asks for a broader view.
This means examining less formal arrangements, like jointly managed services.
If you only focus on the established models, you'll miss the mark.
Consider how different governance structures affect ICT delivery.
Think about the informal networks and relationships that underpin successful collaborations.
Show how you'll make life easier for councils
Remember, this research is meant to inform councils.
To help them adopt better collaborative ICT models.
Your findings should be actionable.
Not just theoretical.
Explain how your research will provide practical recommendations that councils can implement.
How will your work make it easier for them to improve their ICT delivery?
Keep standards consistent throughout
Consistency is key.
The research isn't a one-off report.
It's about delivering insights that can be applied across different councils and over time.
How will you ensure the quality of your research over the entire duration of the project?
What processes do you have in place to maintain high standards?
Be clear about your methodology and how it ensures reliable results.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
This tender is about people as much as it is about technology.
Councils need to work together effectively to deliver ICT services.
So, I'd keep asking myself:
"How will my research help them do that?"
This is the question that should guide every aspect of your response.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on technology without considering human factors
- Overlook less formal collaborative arrangements
- Provide theoretical insights without practical applications
- Fail to demonstrate previous experience with collaborative projects
- Lack evidence of successful ICT collaborations
- Ignore the buyer's emphasis on tangible outcomes
- Offer generic solutions rather than tailored recommendations
My Final Thoughts
This tender isn't just about ICT.
It's about understanding how councils can work together to deliver services more effectively.
With a value of £29,999 and a term running from December 2026 to March 2027, this project offers a focused opportunity.
The buyer is clear that they need insights into practical arrangements that make collaboration work.
Your response should prioritise quality insights.
It's quality, not just price, that will determine success.
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.