David Carson from CPD gave an overview of the public procurement process and improvements made. The process involves a department identifying a need, engaging COPE to organize bidding, COPE providing information to invite bids, suppliers submitting bids, and bids being evaluated to award a contract. Key improvements included standardizing information, validating COPEs, and establishing career paths for procurement professionals. The CBI survey called for reducing bidding costs and improving information. In response, the government has improved processes and manages supplier expectations through procurement plans and clarification sessions. Future plans include publishing more procurement plans and emphasizing contract management.

1. CBI Conference The Bidding Process David Carson CPD

5. Procedures and Timescales 37 days Exp of Interest Competitive Dialogue 37 days Exp of Interest Negotiated 10 days 10 days Exp of Interest Tender Restricted Accelerated 37 days 40 days Exp. of Interest Tender Restricted 52 days Tender Open Min. Timescale Process Procedure

6. Procurement Spend 2007/08 119 Areas of spend less than £20m 2,202 Total 139 Areas of spend between £20m and £50m 1,944 Areas of spend greater than £50m Value £’m Procurement Category

7. Areas of Procurement Spend above £50m

8. Areas of Procurement Spend between £20m and £50m

9. Areas of Procurement Spend below £20m