YSJU Accessible Personnel Lift Installation
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Think about more than just the lift
York St John University isn't just installing a lift.
They're making a historic building accessible without compromising its heritage.
That's the real challenge here.
The contract is for one new internal accessible personnel lift at Kings Manor, a listed building in York.
It's not just about the mechanics, but how you integrate those mechanics into a heritage site.
Respect the heritage
The term "listed building" should ring alarm bells.
This isn't a straightforward installation.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see how you respect the fabric of Kings Manor.
Your approach to heritage sensitivity will set you apart.
Consider the building's character, and how your work will enhance rather than detract from it.
Accessibility is key
Yes, the project is about installing a lift.
But at its core, it's about accessibility.
The University Estates Team is focused on making Kings Manor accessible for all.
Your response should reflect a deep understanding of accessibility legislation and design.
Show how your solution will make a real difference for users.
Pay attention to what they say
The buyer is clear about their priorities.
They're looking for a "suitably qualified provider" who can marry functionality with heritage.
Competence in installing lifts isn't enough.
They want someone who gets the nuances of working in a listed building.
Your qualifications and past projects should reflect this understanding.
Evidence always trumps promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder promised excellence.
Very few proved it.
Evidence always beats promises.
For this tender, consider including:
- Case studies of similar heritage projects
- Testimonials from previous clients in similar contexts
- Evidence of compliance with accessibility standards
- Photos of past work in listed buildings
Don't underestimate project management
Once the lift is installed, how will you ensure it functions seamlessly?
Think about ongoing support and maintenance.
York St John University will want to know that the lift won't just be installed and forgotten.
Explain your approach to post-installation service.
Remember the users
Ultimately, the lift is for people.
Students, staff, visitors.
It's about making their experience smoother and more inclusive.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself is to focus on the end users.
How will your solution make their lives easier?
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on the technical aspects of the lift
- Ignore the heritage requirements of Kings Manor
- Provide generic examples unrelated to listed buildings
- Overlook the importance of accessibility legislation
- Fail to demonstrate post-installation support
- Neglect to show evidence of past relevant projects
My Final Thoughts
York St John University is looking for more than a lift installer.
They need a partner who understands heritage, accessibility and the people who will use the lift.
This isn't just about the £100,000 contract value.
It's about delivering a solution that respects the past while serving the present.
Quality clearly matters here.
That's what I'd build my submission around.
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.