Supplier FAQs (page 3 of 7)
Framework agreements
- What is a Framework?
- Do you have a list of the current COI Frameworks?
- What is the Framework renewal process?
- Why review existing frameworks?
- Are the Framework application deadlines extendable?
- Do we need to have public sector experience?
- How often will the Frameworks be reviewed?
- Can you add suppliers to the Framework at any time?
- Does being on the Framework guarantee us work?
- I am already on a COI Framework, do I need to re-apply when the Framework comes up for renewal?
- We're on another COI Framework, do we have to apply for other COI Frameworks separately?
- When is a particular Framework being renewed?
- I can't see a Framework that my services would sit under - can I contact someone?
What is a Framework?
Previously referred to by COI as a Roster, a framework is a list of suppliers who have been selected through the proper procurement process in accordance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2006.
The suppliers sign an agreement setting out the general terms and conditions that future contracts awarded via the framework are subject to.
There is no obligation on the COI to invite a supplier to compete for work or award work to them via the framework. The maximum life of a framework is 4 years, during those 4 years we are unable to add suppliers to the framework. COI can only place a contract with a supplier based on the scope of the agreement that the framework was awarded.
Do you have a list of the current COI Frameworks?
Yes, you can review the list of COI frameworks.
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What is the Framework renewal process?
When a framework is due for renewal (usually 6 - 8 months before the expiry date), in accordance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2006, COI frameworks are advertised in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU), Trade Journals and on our website. This will direct suppliers to the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) which will always be held on our eTendering site.
Suppliers who have registered their interest using e-Vendor Management will be contacted automatically via BravoSolution to inform you that a PQQ has been published. All potential suppliers should complete the PQQ, which will be available to complete for at least 30 days.
Once the completed PQQ's have been submitted and evaluated, we will draw up a shortlist based on the information provided in the PQQ's. A second stage may consist of responding to a dummy brief, an invitation to present to us or another form or evaluation. Once this information has been reviewed the final list of suppliers to take a place on the framework will be announced.
Why review existing frameworks?
The maximum life of a COI framework is four years, but a review could take place earlier if it becomes operationally necessary to do so. In four years the media landscape and government policy that dictate the kind of work we do can change significantly. COI strives for our frameworks to be the 'best of the best' so it is also important that new talent is given the opportunity to work with us.
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Are the Framework application deadlines extendable?
No, these are fixed, if you miss the deadlines your application will NOT be considered.
Do we need to have public sector experience?
No, but previous experience of public sector issues will be advantageous in your application.
How often will the Frameworks be reviewed?
The maximum life of the framework is four years but it could be reviewed earlier if it becomes operationally necessary to do so.
Can you add suppliers to the Framework at any time?
No, once the framework is confirmed suppliers cannot be added to the list until it is next renewed. Further to this, we cannot move suppliers to other lots within that time period even if a supplier currently on a framework, develops further service offerings under different lots on the framework.
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Does being on the Framework guarantee us work?
No, COI is under no obligation to provide work for those on any of the frameworks.
I am already on a COI Framework, do I need to re-apply when the Framework comes up for renewal?
Yes, all applicants must be put through the same selection process.
We're on another COI Framework, do we have to apply for other COI Frameworks separately?
Yes, all the frameworks are completely separate and set up to provide different services.
When is a particular Framework being renewed?
The expiry dates for all of our frameworks can be viewed on the framework page. The renewal process will usually start around 6 - 8 months before.
I can't see a Framework that my services would sit under - can I contact someone?
Please contact Procurement.


