Procurement
Our objectives
Our procurement follows some key objectives:
- Obtaining maximum value for money in contracting for the goods and services that enable the department to deliver its business objectives
- Enhancing the competitiveness of the supply base
- 'Value for money' means the optimal combination of costs, service delivery and quality.
Open for e-business
We are particularly interested in lowering the cost of the procurement process; we are committed to doing business electronically for the benefit of all.
As a first step along this road, we use the Government Procurement Card (VISA) for low-value orders. We encourage suppliers to accept payment in this way - and it is likely to be a requirement for many future contracts.
Open for business with small firms
We are responsible for developing business opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with up to 250 employees. 'Value for money' is the only deciding factor when we award contracts competitively but, given our wider responsibility, we strongly encourage SMEs to bid for the departmental contracts they believe they could fulfil.
In support of the government's commitment to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) BIS has agreed a number of practical steps to facilitate SMEs doing business with the department.
Further details on SME policy, including details of 'Contracts Finder', the government portal for tendering opportunities over £10,000 and procurement transparency are available.
Prompt payment
BIS aims to reduce invoice payment times to 5 working days and all valid goods and services invoices received are paid as soon as they have been authorised by the BIS officials responsible for the contract. We are applying this policy to all suppliers of goods and services but will not be changing our existing contractual terms and conditions.
Our website includes guidance for suppliers on the correct way to submit an invoice.
More on prompt payment of BIS Suppliers
Simap website
Access to information on electronic procurement, CPV codes and standard forms for notification. Please note that BIS policy is to use the BIP "Project" notification/submission software so forms should not be accessed or submitted directly to the Simap website. Consult the IWS Commercial Office for full details
We hope you find these pages useful. Please email your suggestions or procurement queries to Procurement Policy Services: procurementpolicy@bis.gsi.gov.uk
