UK Procurement Glossary
Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS)
An electronic procurement vehicle that remains open to new suppliers throughout its lifetime, used for commonly-needed goods or services.
Definition
A Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) is a flexible procurement vehicle that, unlike a framework agreement, remains open to new supplier applications throughout its lifetime. Suppliers can join at any time by passing the published selection criteria. Buyers run mini-competitions among DPS members whenever a specific need arises.
DPSs are widely used in UK public sector for high-volume, repeating needs — social care placements, agency staff, healthcare services, IT contracting and consultancy. Major DPS examples include CCS's ATS (Analytical Services) DPS and dozens of council-run social-care DPSs.
How this affects your bid
DPSs lower the entry barrier — you can apply anytime, not just during a window. But each mini-competition you bid on requires a fresh response, so DPS membership is just step one; the real work is winning mini-competitions against other DPS members.
Common questions about dynamic purchasing system (dps)
How is a DPS different from a framework?
Frameworks close to new applicants after a one-off competition. DPSs stay open for new suppliers to apply throughout the life of the system. Both then run mini-competitions for specific needs.
How long does it take to join a DPS?
Typically 10-15 working days from application submission to approval if you meet the published criteria. Some DPSs process applications faster.
Related terms
Framework Agreement
A pre-agreed contract between one or more buyers and a panel of suppliers, used as the …
Mini-Competition
A short competitive process run among suppliers on a framework or DPS to award a specif…
Call-Off Contract
An individual contract awarded under a parent framework agreement or DPS, ordered by a …
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