ESPO is seeking to establish a Framework Agreement with a number of service providers for the provision of eProcurement Solutions.
The framework will offer customers access to a number of comprehensive eProcurement web-based solutions and will be split into 7 distinct modules:
— eTendering (including eEvaluation),
— eAuction,
— Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS),
— eContract Management,
— eVendor (supplier management),
— Complete eProcurement Solution.
Service providers must be able to deliver the above 6 core modules as a minimum.
The procure-to-pay module is a non-mandatory solution to be delivered through the framework should the service provider offer the module as part of their services.
— Procure-to-Pay (P2P).
ESPO operates an eProcurement portal, through which it usually conducts tender exercises. However, ESPO has determined that the specialised nature of this procurement means that, in order to be able to demonstrate that the confidentiality of tenders has been preserved, the use of electronic means of communication would require specific tools, devices or file formats that are not generally available or supported by generally available applications. Regulation 22(3) of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 permits ESPO not to use electronic means of communication in these circumstances. Therefore, ESPO shall carry out communication in accordance with Regulation 22(4) of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and the tender process will be completed outside the portal, through a postal exercise.