Resources: procurement


THE BENEFITS OF USING YPO


YPO operates across the wider public sector and can, therefore, aggregate spend in order to deliver the best value for money,


YPO liaises with experts in each sector who advise on all aspects of the use of framework contracts,


Technology Products


YPO’s Technology Products framework


(Ref: RM1054) covers a range of ICT solutions. Go to ypo.co.uk


YPO works with approximately 700 suppliers, including market- leading brands, guaranteeing the biggest range of products and services nationwide,


Q WHAT ABOUT TECHNICAL SUPPORT, SERVICING,


SOFTWARE UPDATES AND TRAINING? A All of YPO’s frameworks cover


these aspects so you can be


whether there’s a long-term plan in place. If an incremental approach is used, it’s advisable to prioritise which kit and/or systems need replacing rst, by setting out a clear and achievable project plan with timeframes. Be mindful of your spend


levels being aggregated, as EU procurement regulations apply to all public sector bodies, so all purchases need to be fair and transparent. If you’re unsure of any aspect of the requirements, or how to conduct a procurement review, YPO is on hand to provide advice and could direct you to a framework that can help meet your needs.


Q ARE WE BETTER OFF BUYING A Again, this would depend on


EQUIPMENT OR EXPLORING LEASE-HIRE AGREEMENTS?


your long-term strategy. There


are many benets to both options but the decision can boil down to the expected length of requirement for the equipment, and whether there’s a need for a planned product refresh. This should be considered on a case-by-case basis and reviewed annually to ensure the approach remains t for purpose. Our team at YPO are more than happy to give advice and guidance on this, especially around the use of operational leases.


assured that suppliers have already been through an evaluation process to test their suitability. We also work to strict key performance indicators to which suppliers must adhere – for example, training to be delivered on new equipment within a certain number of days.


Q CAN WE USE TECHNOLOGY A Absolutely! YPO has frameworks


TO SAVE COSTS AROUND THE SCHOOL IN OTHER WAYS?


that cover Electronic Kitchen


Management (Ref: 684) – software to replace paper-based ordering, stock and recipe management; Travel Management Services (Ref: RM1034) – for online travel and accommodation bookings; and Energy Bureau Service – a fully- hosted service to allow energy bills to be checked and validated, to name a few.


Procurement options are available through either Direct Award or Further Competition,


YPO’s ICT team have negotiated with suppliers to provide a complete end-to-end service, including site survey, delivery, installation, demonstrations, and product training


All frameworks are EU compliant, so there’s no need to run a full tender.


The most popular ICT-related frameworks with schools are: Technology Products (RM1054) provides a full range of ICT products, services and solutions across a range of ‘Lots’ that cover ICT desktop and infrastructure hardware, services and solutions. This includes monitors, servers, PCs, laptops, and tablets.


Multifunctional Devices and Services, Managed Print Services and Print Audit Services (RM1599) is a framework to purchase photocopiers and associated print-related services.


Electronic Office Supplies (413) is a framework for the provision of toner cartridges (branded/own brand), memory sticks, CDs, and DVDs.


‘We’re eager to help schools with their procurement, and welcome suggestions for areas that we might


not currently cover – we’d love to hear from you! Kate Davies, ICT Category Manager at YPO


YPO has over 80 procurement frameworks. To find out more about the procurement service and to get advice on how you can make the most of your school budgets, contact YPO on 01924 664664 or email procurementservices@ypo.co.uk. YPO works with


suppliers across the UK to offer the latest products and services to schools at the most competitive prices. Explore over 30,000 products at ypo.co.uk/products.


FundEd SUMMER 2016 61


IMAGES: DORLING KINDERSLEY/THINKSTOCK.CO.UK; STEVE DEBENPORT/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM


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