What is a Dynamic Purchasing System? A Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) is a procurement tool used by UK public sector buyers to maintain a pre-approved pool of suppliers for a particular category of goods or services. Unlike a framework agreement, a DPS is always open: any supplier that meets the qualification criteria can apply to join at any time during the DPS's lifetime. Once on the DPS, suppliers are invited to bid for specific contracts when a buyer runs a mini-competition from the pool. How a DPS works in practice The DPS is established. A contracting authority publishes a DPS notice on Find a Tender or Contracts Finder. It sets out the categories covered and the qualification criteria. Suppliers apply to join. Any supplier meeting the criteria can submit a Selection Questionnaire (
A DPS can run for any length of time, though most are set up for 4 to 8 years. Unlike framework agreements, the duration of a DPS is not capped by procurement regulations.
Yes. This is one of the key features of a DPS: it remains open to new applicants throughout its lifetime. Applications are assessed on a rolling basis.
No. There is no charge to apply for or join a public sector DPS. The process involves completing a selection questionnaire and demonstrating that you meet the specified criteria.
A framework restricts membership to a fixed number of suppliers chosen at the outset. A DPS is always open to new applicants. Frameworks suit stable, mature categories; DPS arrangements work better in fast-moving markets.
No. Many contracts are procured via open competition or other routes. However, being on relevant DPS arrangements gives you access to contracts that are only advertised to DPS members.
DPS establishment notices are published on Find a Tender. TenderSignal monitors these notices and can alert you when a new DPS is set up in your sector or when a buyer launches a mini-competition from one.