If you want repeat public sector work rather than one-off contracts, frameworks and Dynamic Purchasing Systems (DPS) are the two routes that matter. Both pre-approve suppliers so buyers can award work quickly, but they behave very differently, and choosing the right one shapes how you spend your bid effort.
How frameworks work
A framework agreement appoints a set of suppliers, usually split into lots by service or region, for a fixed term, commonly two to four years. Once appointed, buyers can award you contracts (call-offs) either by direct award against published criteria or through a mini-competition between the appointed suppliers. The catch is the window: most frameworks only open for applications when they are re-tendered, so missing the refresh means waiting years.
How a DPS works
A Dynamic Purchasing System stays open for its whole life. New suppliers can apply and be admitted at any time, provided they meet the selection criteria. That makes a DPS more flexible and more accessible for newer or growing suppliers, buyers then run mini-competitions among admitted suppliers for each requirement.
- Framework: fixed supplier list, closed window, set term, lots by service or region
- DPS: open to new applicants throughout, admission on meeting criteria
- Both: award by direct award or mini-competition among approved suppliers
- Both: a place is the right to bid, not a guarantee of contracts
Which should you target?
If a major framework covers your market, getting on it at the next refresh is usually worth the effort, the call-off volume can be significant. But don't wait idle: a DPS in the same category lets you start bidding now while you prepare for the framework. The winning strategy is to track both, apply for the lots you can genuinely deliver, and stay visible to buyers so you win the mini-competitions once you're appointed.
FastTender tracks framework refreshes and DPS opportunities alongside live tenders, with early-signal alerts so you can prepare before the window opens. Browse the frameworks directory to see the major agreements by sector.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between a framework and a DPS?+
A framework typically appoints a fixed list of suppliers for a set term with a closed application window. A Dynamic Purchasing System stays open throughout its life, so new suppliers can apply and join at any point.
Do framework places guarantee work?+
No. A place gives you the right to be considered for call-offs, but buyers still choose between appointed suppliers by direct award or mini-competition, so you must stay active and competitive.