Tendering for Space Technology Solutions (CCS)

How to Bid for the RM6370 Space Technology Solutions Framework

The RM6370 Space Technology Solutions (STS) framework, managed by the Crown Commercial Service (CCS), aims to provide public sector organisations access to advanced space-related technologies and services.

• Scope of Services: The RM6370 framework covers satellite communications, geospatial data and services, UAV solutions, space domain awareness, and more.
• Dynamic Market: Using a flexible, dynamic market approach allowing for the inclusion of new technologies and suppliers.
• Collaboration: Encourages collaboration with various government departments and industry stakeholders.

By following these steps and using the support offered through the RM6370 framework, your organisation can improve its chances of winning contracts and contributing to the UK's space technology advancements.

Key Steps

1. Identifying Opportunity

Regularly check the CCS RM6370 webpage for tender opportunities. Stay updated on announcements and engagement sessions. You can also speak with us and access our free events.

Ensure your business meets the pre-qualification criteria, including any required certifications such as Carbon Reduction Plans and Cyber Essentials.

2. Understanding CCS Space Technology Requirements

Thorough Review: Carefully read all pre-tender documents to understand specifications, compliance requirements, and evaluation criteria. Be involved and engage with CCS. We will monitor updates - contact us and we will keep you updated: hello@thorntonandlowe.com

3. Preparing for the CCS Framework

This is a significant opportunity for businesses in the sector. Allocate sufficient time to preparing and strategically positioning your business in order to complete and maximise the potential it offers. Create a detailed and compelling proposal that addresses all evaluation criteria. Collate case studies, likely references, policies and accreditations now!

Overview of Crown Commercial Service (CCS)

Crown Commercial Service plays a vital role in the UK public sector procurement landscape. It offers a range of agreements and solutions to help organisations obtain better value for money when purchasing common goods and services.

The Role of CCS in the UK Public Sector

CCS acts as a central purchasing body for the UK government and wider public sector. You can rely on CCS to negotiate competitive deals with suppliers, leveraging the collective buying power of the public sector. This approach helps you achieve significant savings and efficiencies in your procurement processes.

CCS manages over 100 commercial agreements covering various categories, including technology, facilities management, and professional services. By using these agreements, you can streamline your procurement activities and ensure compliance with UK regulations.

CCS Agreements and Their Use

CCS offers a wide range of procurement routes to suit your needs. These include:

• Framework agreements
• Dynamic Purchasing Systems (DPS)
• Catalogues

For space technology solutions, CCS is developing a new agreement to replace the existing Space-Enabled and Geospatial Services DPS. This upcoming agreement will provide access to satellite communications, unmanned aerial vehicles, and other space-related technologies.

You can easily search for and access these agreements through the CCS website. Each agreement comes with guidance on how to use it effectively.

Benefits of CCS to the Public Sector

By using CCS agreements, you can:

1. Save time and money on procurement processes
2. Access pre-vetted suppliers and competitive pricing
3. Benefit from standardised terms and conditions
4. Ensure compliance with UK procurement regulations

CCS agreements often result in significant cost savings. For example, you might achieve discounts of up to 30% on certain products and services compared to buying directly from suppliers.

Using CCS also reduces the administrative burden on your organisation. You can avoid running full tender processes for every purchase, freeing up resources for other priorities. For detailed information, visit the CCS RM6370.

Tendering for Space Technology Solutions through CCS

Crown Commercial Service (CCS) will offer a streamlined process for public sector organisations to access space technology solutions. The tendering process will involve a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) that provides flexible and efficient procurement options for various space-enabled services.

Understanding the Tendering Process

The CCS tendering process for space technology solutions aims to simplify procurement for public sector bodies. You'll find a range of services available, from 'off-the-shelf' products to bespoke solutions tailored to your needs. The process allows you to specify your requirements and receive bids from qualified suppliers.

To participate, you'll need to register on the CCS eSourcing platform. Once registered, you can browse available opportunities and submit your tender responses electronically. The platform provides a user-friendly interface to manage your tender submissions and track their progress.

CCS evaluates tenders based on pre-determined criteria, ensuring fairness and transparency throughout the process.

Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) for Space Tech

The DPS for Space Technology Solutions offers a flexible procurement route. Unlike traditional frameworks, suppliers can join the DPS at any time, provided they meet the qualification criteria. This ensures you have access to the latest innovations and a growing pool of suppliers.

Key features of the DPS include:

• Continuous supplier onboarding
• Ability to refine requirements for each procurement
• Streamlined supplier selection process
• Reduced procurement timelines

The DPS covers a wide range of space technology services, including satellite communications, unmanned aerial vehicles, and space domain awareness.

Accessibility of Tender Opportunities

CCS makes tender opportunities for space technology solutions easily accessible to public sector buyers. You can find these opportunities on the Digital Marketplace and the CCS eSourcing platform.

To stay informed:

1. Register on the CCS website
2. Subscribe to email alerts for relevant categories
3. Regularly check the Digital Marketplace for new opportunities

CCS also provides guidance documents and webinars to help you navigate the tendering process effectively. These resources offer valuable insights into best practices and common pitfalls to avoid when submitting your tender.

Geospatial and Remote Sensing Solutions

The Space Technology Solutions agreement includes a significant focus on geospatial and remote sensing services. These technologies offer powerful tools for data collection, analysis, and decision-making across various public sector applications.

Available services include:

• Satellite imagery acquisition and processing
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) integration
• Terrain mapping and modelling
• Environmental monitoring and analysis.

Procurement Regulations and Compliance

Procurement regulations are important to consider when tendering for frameworks like Space Technology Solutions through Crown Commercial Service (CCS). These rules ensure fairness, transparency, and value for money in public sector procurement. As a supplier the better you understand the procurement rules and how CCS has to work, the higher your chances of success!

Key Procurement Regulations in Public Sector

The Procurement Act introduces new flexibilities for public sector buyers. It aims to streamline processes and improve efficiency in procurement activities.

CCS is adopting new approaches to align with this legislation to ensure better value for money is achieved for public sector buyers across the UK. For Space Technology Solutions, CCS will be reviewing their approach and tools to ensure full compliance with the new regime. This includes updating eProcurement systems and tendering processes.

Buyers must follow specific steps when conducting further competitions. These include creating specifications, setting evaluation criteria, and using approved contract formats.