What this is for
A framework agreement is a pre approved list of suppliers that a buyer can draw from without running a whole new tender each time. A dynamic purchasing system, or DPS, works in a similar way. Awarding a specific piece of work from a framework is called a call-off. If your organisation holds a place on a framework, Velstrian Bid lets you start a call-off bid under it, so you answer only what the call-off asks rather than proving your suitability again.
Where it starts
Frameworks are mostly a public sector route, so the call-off option is offered when the bid is for a public buyer. A bid for a private buyer shows a short note explaining which start options do not apply to it. The framework positions your organisation holds are listed on the Frameworks and lots screen. An owner or administrator records each position, the framework and the lot you hold a place on, in your bid profile, and it then appears there ready to use.
Step by step
- Open Start a bid from the Velstrian Bid menu.
- Under the other ways to start, choose Start a call-off. This opens Frameworks and lots.
- Find the framework position the call-off is under and choose Start a call-off beside it.
- Say how the call-off is being awarded, by mini competition or by direct award. Selection is not asked again, because you passed it when you joined the framework.
- Draft, review and export as you would for any bid. A framework split into lots is scored lot by lot.
What happens next
A call-off creates a bid workspace like any other, so the drafting, review and export steps are the same. Only the call-off quality answers need evidence, because your selection evidence is already lodged with the framework. Working lot by lot keeps each parcel of work clear, which matters when you bid for some lots and not others.
Common problems
You cannot see Start a call-off: it is offered for bids to a public buyer, so check the buyer type you chose. Frameworks and lots is empty: no position has been recorded yet, so ask an owner or administrator to add the framework and lot in your bid profile. Lots are confusing: treat each lot as its own small bid with its own answers, which is how the call-off is scored.