If you are looking for a new Information Management or Learning Services provider, or need to review the market prior to renewing your present provider, take a look at the IMLS Framework.
If you are letting an agreement for a number of years, or if your financial commitment is significant, the chances are you must consider European and UK procurement regulations. However, even if your financial commitment is not very large, there are still excellent terms and conditions attached to sales through the framework which may not be available elsewhere. One way to ensure a legal, cost effective solution providing best of class solutions with terms and conditions specially tailored for the education sector is through the IMLS Framework.
For detailed informative guidance on how to use this effective procurement method, please refer to the information available below and via the related links.
What is the IMLS Framework Agreement?
Framework agreements for the education sector aim to offer local authorities, schools, colleges and training providers a quick, easy and trusted procurement route for accessing a range of services designed to deliver their specific requirements. The IMLS Framework is similarly constructed and has been carefully developed after consultation with schools and local authorities. It addresses many of your particular concerns and considerations when planning the procurement of a Management Information System or Learning Platform solution (sometimes described as a virtual learning environment).
Further detail on the background to, and scope of, the IMLS Framework can be found in the Background and Scope document.
Why should I use it?
The IMLS Framework provides a simple and straightforward mechanism for procuring these services and/or products, based on delivering a legally compliant solution, value for money and standards and specifications specifically designed for the education sector. Eligible users can use the Framework individually, or in collaboration with other like-minded users (often leading to additional savings and efficiencies).
Procuring via Framework agreements removes the need to separately advertise and tender a contract (as otherwise required by procurement regulations), thereby significantly reducing costs and timescales. The IMLS Framework has been awarded in full compliance with European procurement regulations so users can be assured that the services may be procured with confidence. A robust set of terms and conditions has already been agreed with suppliers specifically for the services provided via the Framework.
More detail on the benefits and advantages of using the IMLS Framework can be found in the Benefits and Advantages of Using the IMLS Framework document.
How should I use it?
Users must run a mini (or further) competition whereby all capable suppliers appointed to the Framework are invited to submit a proposal specifically designed for the user. Although there are a significant number of providers on the Framework list, not all companies will normally respond; this will usually depend on the size, complexity and location of the customer.
Advice on how to effectively procure solutions using both methods (including advice on how to run an effective mini competition) is available in the How to Procure Your Solution document.
Developing your Statement of Requirements
Putting together an effective specification for your individual tender requires careful attention to ensure that your particular needs are addressed. The best requirements are normally those developed as an output specification (describing clearly what you wish to achieve) that closely aligns with the business strategy and vision for your institution. Useful advice on how to develop your tender document and considerations when procuring an Information Management or Learning Services solution are available in the Developing a Statement of Requirements document.
Contract Management - How to manage your supplier
Effective management of the contract over its term is fundamental to the overall success of the solution chosen. Service Level Agreements embedding Key Performance Indicators should be developed and agreed with your chosen supplier. These need to be monitored and reviewed as part of a regular interface with the supplier in order to identify issues and highlight areas for improvement. Advice on how to implement quality contract management arrangements is available in the Manage Your Contract document.
Useful hints, tips, do’s and don’ts, FAQs
These links provide quick access to particular aspects of advice and guidance designed to facilitate the most effective procurement of Management Information Systems and Learning Services, and contain many useful hints, tips and FAQs. These can be found in the FAQs Only document.
Government Procurement Service
Please note that the IMLS Framework is a Government Procurement Service (GPS) Framework that has been delivered in close collaboration with the Department for Education on behalf of the education sector. Some references or links will therefore direct customers to the GPS website, where basic/generic advice about how to use a GPS Framework can be found.
The advice and guidance provided by the Department for Education is a complementary set of information of a more specialist educational nature designed to enhance the use of the Framework in terms of bespoke customer requirements.
Still not sure?
The advice and guidance provided has been designed to facilitate effective use of the Framework but it cannot cover all scenarios and there may still be unanswered questions for some customers.
If further guidance or advice on the IMLS Framework is required, we would be pleased to help. Please contact our central e-mail address which is schools.ictsupport@education.gsi.gov.uk
