Doncaster Council

"e-procurement" describes the use of an electronic system to acquire goods, works and services and payments from third parties.

Use of electronic techniques helps to increase competition and streamline public purchasing, particularly in terms of savings in time and money. The National Objectives are to achieve efficiencies in the procure-to-pay cycle including reduction in cycle time and reduction in transaction costs. This will free resources that can be directed into front line public services.

Doncaster Council may make use of such techniques provided the rules set out in the EC Public Procurement Directive are complied with, as well as the principles of equal treatment, non-discrimination and transparency.

E-procurement will allow Doncaster Council to reduce costs and increase efficiency by interacting with suppliers to buy products and services online. Suppliers can also share the benefits by reducing paperwork, administration and order errors while improving cash flow, efficiency and responsiveness.  Moreover, it provides a level playing field for small and large suppliers, benefiting the most competitive and responsive companies.

As a Council, we aim to achieve the following benefits through e-procurement;

• Lower administration costs, with less paperwork, driving down costs;
• Reduced payment times, improving both our own and suppliers cash flow;
• Shorter opportunity times, improving customer service; benefits responsive, working with customer-focused companies;
• Provide a level playing field for suppliers, both large and small;
• Access to wider opportunities from other customers through partnerships and collaboration with other public bodies;
• Fewer order errors; and
• Support the wider implementation of e-business solutions.              

The following pages provides you with a brief explanation on the electronic techniques Doncaster Council will be adopting in its e-procurement strategy.