|
Client: Qualifications
& Curriculum Authority (QCA)
The Project:
QCA intended to give notice to their current logistics services
supplier and required assistance on selection of potential suppliers,
issuing and assessing expressions of interest, issuing Invitations
to Tender and selection of a new contractor
|
Background
QCA
is the guardian of standards in education and training,
working with others to maintain and develop the school
curriculum and to accredit and monitor qualifications
in schools, colleges and work. As part of this service
QCA makes available publications, which set down policy
and guidance, to a variety of partners and customers including
awarding bodies, schools, colleges, training providers,
employers, professional associations, parents, school
governors, etc.
The current logistics operations were outsourced. The
quality and cost of service were considered to leave scope
for improvement and there was a failure to progress change
at a satisfactory rate. It was therefore decided to give
notice and put the logistics operation back out to tender
|
|
Activities
|
Bisham was asked to assist them in this major project.
The first step was to ensure that a suitable strategy
was in place to ensure continuity of service during
the notice period.
The second step was to identify the process for outsourcing
including the timetable required. This was followed
by preparation of the assessment criteria on which the
decisions would be based.
Using the OJEC system expressions of interest were invited.
These were evaluated in line with the assessment criteria
to produce a short list for the Invitation to Tender.
(ITT).
Preparation work included activity and volume data together
with the specification of key service levels
|
|
Outputs
The ITT
was issued and included the provision of full order line
services, including on-line web ordering, order receipt
and processing, customer services, accounting services,
warehousing and distribution and on-demand printing and
despatch services.
The Tender responses were then assessed in line with the
criteria which included costs; call centre, warehousing
and distribution experience; method statements and implementation
plans. A short short list was prepared and after visits
and interviews including client assessment a decision
was made.
|
|
|
Results
|
. A smooth transition from
the outgoing contractor to the new contractor
. A considerable saving in contract costs
. Progress in terms of change to on-line printing on
demand providing future cost benefits
. A completely satisfactory service in terms of existing
activities
. A belief that a real partnership had been achieved
and would carry on into the future
. Complete satisfaction at the end of the firrst year
of operation
|
|
|
contact
the team
back
to previous