{"id":77833,"date":"2020-06-18T09:15:43","date_gmt":"2020-06-18T08:15:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pbctoday.co.uk\/news\/?p=77833"},"modified":"2020-06-18T09:15:43","modified_gmt":"2020-06-18T08:15:43","slug":"construction-framework-provider","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pbctoday.co.uk\/news\/planning-construction-news\/construction-framework-provider\/77833\/","title":{"rendered":"How construction frameworks can help the public sector bounce back"},"content":{"rendered":"

Jason Stapley, managing director of framework organisation Pagabo<\/a>, looks at the important aspects public sector bodies must consider when selecting a framework provider<\/h2>\n

Framework organisation Pagabo reacted quickly to the governments recently released Procurement Policy Notes (PPN 01\/20) which provides contracting bodies options for emergency works directly related to helping in the recovery phase of Covid-19<\/a>.<\/p>\n

As well as this crucial support from government to activate vital emergency projects rapidly, Pagabo was the only framework provider to offer its framework agreements, free of all fees, where extreme urgency was required.<\/p>\n

Government has recognised that the construction sector is central to the UK recovery \u2013 and therefore frameworks will be even more critical for the post-Covid world as public sector bodies look to activate \u2018on ice\u2019 projects quickly and effectively.<\/p>\n

But organisations are continuing to procure through frameworks \u2013 as well as through the PPN 01\/20<\/a> which allows contracting authorities to adjust their procurement approach to meet urgent needs. To protect public money and resources, authorities must demonstrate a robust business case, suitable governance, and objective decision making.<\/p>\n

Efficient procurement<\/h3>\n

Despite the exceptional circumstances, our sector continues many of its usual activities. Construction projects<\/a> and programmes continue to progress, albeit with restrictions and at a reduced pace. Future projects are being planned for when \u2018normal\u2019 life resumes, and emergency requirements are being created and facilitated at speed.<\/p>\n

We strongly believe that the quickest and most efficient way to procure is using a framework agreement \u2014 particularly one with a designated Direct Award process. Our frameworks<\/a> allow for direct award and provide clients with a ready-made, simple and compliant solution, accelerating access to works, goods and services providers.<\/p>\n

But aside from the current Covid circumstances, clients need to work with framework organisations which are transparent about fees. Not all frameworks are, and there may be costs throughout a project which clients may not expect. Pagabo has transparency around fees and we feel that as an industry, framework organisations have a responsibility to offer that clarity \u2013 and particularly post-Covid as we move into recovery phase.<\/p>\n

Choose a framework provider carefully<\/h3>\n

Framework providers must provide simple, affordable and accessible solutions, but they must go further. In the same ways that the public sector needs to consider the suitability of their consultant or contractor, the public sector must choose a framework provider carefully.<\/p>\n

Questions public bodies should ask their framework providers, include:<\/h4>\n