Guide to Purchasing ICT: A Good Practice Guide for Public Procurement for Innovation and Lifetime Value

Public procurement in the UK could play a significant role in stimulating innovation in the supply market. However, in order to do so, the emphasis in the public sector needs to mature, as it already has in much of Europe, from minimising costs in the short-term to obtaining better value over a much longer period (‘lifetime value’).

Public sector organisations can effect positive changes in UK growth and productivity by applying the rules more creatively, leading market changes and acting as ‘intelligent customers’ to stimulate innovation among Suppliers.

This Guide focuses on how to go about making creative ICT procurements, rather than on what to purchase. It identifies eight stages in the process and explains the key principles and good practice at each stage. Following the Guide and using a structured approach that balances regulatory requirements with the need for creativity and innovation will lead to more effective procurement practices throughout the public sector.

Successfully using ICT is vital for most organisations and good Suppliers often play a key role in the success of their Customers.

With this in mind, the Accredit UK Standard was launched in 2007. Accredit UK provides this quality mark to promote trust and help ICT Suppliers prove their excellence. It demonstrates to potential ICT Purchasers that companies holding the mark operate with appropriately skilled people and clearly defined processes, with a track record of meeting Customers’ expectations. Accredit UK encourages you to engage Suppliers carrying this quality mark.

In addition to this Guide, the Accredit UK Standard provides useful materials for Purchasers. Segment-Specific Documentation, containing technical information, is available to help Purchasers prepare better ICT specifications.

Download The Guide To Purchasing ICT as a pdf booklet