What is a government procurement service framework?

A Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) is an electronic, open list of suppliers set up by a UK contracting authority for commonly-used goods, services or works; new suppliers can join at any time and the authority runs mini-competitions among them when awarding contracts.

A contract between a contracting authority and one or more suppliers that sets out terms (e.g., price, quality) under which future individual contracts (called “call-offs”) may be awarded over a defined period.

It’s a contract a contracting authority uses to set out terms (such as price, service levels and quality) with one or more suppliers, under which future individual contracts (“call-offs”) can be awarded.

Refers to the published catalogue or register of framework agreements approved for use by NHS organisations such as trusts, where they can call-off goods, services or works from pre-qualified suppliers. Suppliers use these lists to identify where they may seek appointment.

A framework agreement set up specifically for use by NHS bodies (hospitals, trusts, integrated care systems) that allows them to buy from a select list of pre-qualified suppliers under agreed terms. It enables faster procurement by reducing the need for full tenders each time.

A centralised procurement route managed by NHS Supply Chain, allowing NHS organisations to purchase goods and services through national framework agreements. It covers clinical and non-clinical products and supports economies of scale across the health system.

It’s a legally compliant agreement that sets out terms and conditions between a contracting authority and approved suppliers for future purchases. Once established, the buyer can make repeat orders or “call-offs” without running a new full tender.

Public sector procurement frameworks are structured agreements set up by UK public authorities to pre-select suppliers and terms. They streamline repeat purchases of goods, services or works under consistent conditions, saving time and ensuring compliance with procurement law.