Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we have grouped together questions that existing and potential customers regularly ask us. If you cannot find the information you need, please telephone our Customer Service Desk on 0845 410 2222 or e-mail: custcare@ogcbs.gsi.gov.uk
- How many suppliers are party to the eAuction contract?Answer
A single service provider, Trading Partners have been awarded the contract
- What is the duration of the eAuction contract?Answer
The contract commenced in December 2007 and will run for two years
- Do I have to pay OGCbuying.solutions to use the framework?Answer
No. OGCbuying.solutions raises a management charge on the eAuction service provider, which is equal to 1% of the invoice raised for providing the service.
- Is the framework compliant with the EU Directives? Answer
The Framework for eAuction Services was advertised in OJEU and has been established in accordance with UK procurement legislation and forthcoming EU directive.
- Can any public body use the eAuction contract?Answer
Yes, including most charities and housing associations. Please contact the Customer Service Desk on 0870 268 2222 to check your eligibility if in doubt.
- Are eAuctions legal in the public sector?Answer
Yes. eAuctions have always been allowed in the public sector. The new consolidated procurement Directive that came into operation in the UK on 31st January 2006 expressly allows for their use.
- Can I run an auction within a Framework?Answer
Yes. How an auction event is set-up will depend upon the governing rules contained in the framework agreement. For example, the framework agreement may have been awarded on the basis of the most economically advantageous tender(s) ("MEAT") while call-offs from the framework are awarded on the basis of lowest price. Alternatively, a different mix of MEAT criteria could be used at the call-off stage than that used when the framework agreement was awarded provided that this has been indicated in the framework agreement.
- Can eAuctions be used to purchase professional services?Answer
Yes. Where levels of professional competence, levels of experience and specialism can be defined, an eAuction can be used as part of the sourcing process.
- What IT investment to I need to make to run an eAuction?Answer
All that is required is a PC or laptop with access to the internet.
- What goods or services would be suitable for eAuction? Answer
Most procurements that are of sufficient value to attract competition, with a requirement that can be accurately specified and for which there is a competitive market are suitable for a eAuction.
- At what stage during my primary procurement would I use the services of an eAuction supplier? Answer
You will need to plan an eAuction and use the services of an eAuction Service Provider, as soon as you have identified a requirement or registered that a contract is coming up for renewal.
