Tender for public sector contracts in Northern Ireland

After seeing a Northern Ireland public sector tender, you may be interested in it. If so, read the tender information carefully. Then, follow the instructions on how to proceed.

Pre-qualification

You may need to pass through several pre-qualification stages before receiving an invitation to submit your tender. Information on your current financial position, previous experience and references will be sought. All responses are evaluated and will form the basis for deciding whether you will go through to the next stage.

Submitting the tender

The tender is your opportunity to show that you are the best supplier for the job. The public sector looks for best value for money — a combination of cost and the optimum ability to meet the contract's requirements. You should complete the tender documents carefully. Prove you can provide the 'best value' and show how you would do it.

You may also need to demonstrate that you meet quality assurance and social value standards.

Contractual arrangements

Most Northern Ireland government contracts are based on standard contract documents, covering one-off purchases to long-term agreements. 'Call off contracts' allow orders to be placed with you for a defined time. Organisations that have met the standards in a tendering process can be called upon without needing a new tendering process each time through 'framework arrangements'. Framework arrangements are typically in place for a specific period, usually three years. Contracts can be extended for a further two years. 

For more information about the tendering process and advice on boosting your chances of success, read prepare your business to tender for contracts. The rules covering tenders can be complex. See Northern Ireland public sector contract rules.

Construction & Procurement Delivery

In Northern Ireland, CPD is responsible for the public procurement policy.

This policy ensures that all tendering processes are:

• accountable
• competitive
• consistent
• effective
• fair and free of discrimination
• legal
• transparent