Use of frameworks

Frameworks are an efficient method for government to procure public works, goods and services and can provide an opportunity for contracting authorities to access economies of scale. However, using frameworks inappropriately can have negative consequences for contracting authorities, markets and suppliers, and can unintentionally inflate prices.

A successful framework contract should be based around principles that align objectives, success measures, targets and incentives so as to enable joint work on improving value and reducing risk. This should then be combined with transparent performance measurement and work allocation procedures. The FAC-1 framework is a good example of a standard form framework contract that can achieve this and many of the ambitions set out in this Playbook.

We will complete a review of the current landscape of frameworks with a view to consolidate, where appropriate, and adopt a new 'gold standard' for frameworks. This will enable contracting authorities to easily identify those frameworks which meet best practices and embody the principles and policies set out in this Playbook. There will be a number of framework options to ensure competition and flexibility across government.