subject: How Can Smes Compete For Public Contracts In The Uk? [print this page] EU guidelines and legislative frameworks in the UK require public authorities to ensure a level playing field for all bidders. Any bidder that has produced an adequate response has a realistic chance of winning the tender. Read on to find out how small businesses can bid successfully.
Consumer demand in the UK may be sluggish, but the Government is still pouring in money to keep the economy stimulated. They are also trying to ensure that the small and medium-sized enterprises get a fair chance to secure their share of Government contracts and contribute to the economy. The EU has also put in place guidelines to provide SMEs with a level playing field.
Winning a public contract can provide a huge payoff, so it is certainly worth making a serious effort. It may be a painstaking process, but if you are successful, your company is sure to get a massive boost.
To be a serious contender for these contracts, it is essential that you have the right kind of market intelligence. You need to understand the recent developments in the sector so that you can tweak your strategy accordingly. There is tough competition in this sector and market intelligence will provide you with that leading edge.
Businesses can get market intelligence either by constantly monitoring the market themselves or by hiring an agency which specialises in this activity. The objective is to identify new trends in specific fields. However, hiring an agency is always the better option as you can do it at minimal cost and without putting an additional burden on your staff.
The agency you hire must be able to provide you with precise information about new Government contracts as well as well-analysed market intelligence. They will have a diligently developed network in place which will enable them to serve their clients efficiently. They will usually have a daily email alert service which will enable you prepare yourself early for potential opportunities. They can also provide additional information and training to help prepare your response.
To ensure a realistic chance of success, you not only need the basic information but also a complete understanding of the processes and practices used by the organisation or department issuing the tender. If you are new to the process, get up to date with legislative guidelines for public authorities regarding the issuance and evaluation of tenders. You must also know how to create an effective tender response.
An agency can also help your staff comprehend various aspects of Government contracts. For companies who dont have appropriate experience of bidding for public tenders, their support can be crucial. They can also help you get accreditation, which can help you position yourself as a reliable supplier. When you are not an established player, accreditation becomes a major plus.
The EU guidelines and legislative framework require public authorities to ensure adequate advertising of any tender. Steps are taken to ensure that there is impartiality and transparency in the process. If your company is able to produce the right kind of tender response, you have pretty good chances of winning a lucrative tender. The key is to complete the tender response carefully, providing the replies of all the issues raised in the published document and submitting it before the deadline. That is half the job done.
by: Fiona Campbell
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