Doncaster Council

The questions below cover the most common concerns about electronic tendering:

Q: What equipment do I need?
Q: Have I got the right skills?
Q: Is electronic tendering via 'Council Tenders' secure?
Q: What will it cost?
Q: What will I need to do differently?

A:  To get started, you need a computer with Internet access.

You will also need word processing software [such as Microsoft Word] and Adobe Acrobat. 

You will need an Internet Service Provider [ISP] and email address.

Your local Business Link can provide practical help and advice on selecting the right computer for your business and on related matters such as:

• Selecting an ISP
• Using e-mail effectively
• Creating and marketing your own website
• Doing business on the web
• Using search engines
• Finding and using business services and information.                 

Basic web browsing and word processing skills are all you need to use the system. To obtain further information on courses and computer access please do not hesitate to contact Learn Direct.

Your local Business Link, working with UK online for business can advise on basic computer skills training.

With the Supplier and Contract Management System (SCMS) you get comprehensive on-line help at each stage of the process, Doncaster Council is currently re-writing its Supplier Guide to SCMS.

How to register

• Takes you through the process of registering with the site and 
• Explains how to create your own username and password.                  

How to download tender documents and submit an electronic tender bid (advertised tenders)

• Gives advice on downloading tender documents for a project advertised on the site
• Explains how to submit these bids electronically.                  

How to download tender documents and submit an electronic tender bid for restricted (invited) tenders

• Gives advice on downloading tender documents where tenderer's for a specific project have been selected from an approved list and
• Explains how to submit these bids electronically.              

A: The SCMS uses a high level of in-built security. Whilst we would be the first to admit that no system is totally secure, we would stress that the site is more secure than any paper-based process. 

• You register yourself once with the site the first time you visit - creating your own unique User Name and Password
• The secure electronic lock-box will allow tender lodgment up until the deadline
• When the tender deadline expires, the box will not allow any further submissions
• When you lodge your tender, all files are transmitted through a secure connection  
• Tenders are opened formally once the electronic tender box has closed. To open tenders, 2 witnesses need to log on simultaneously.                 

A. There is no charge to suppliers for using the electronic tendering system 

Once you are Internet ready, there are No further costs associated with the system

• There is NO registration fee
• There is NO subscription to pay
• There is NO software to buy                

And what's more, using the system can actually help you SAVE!

• SAVE  postage costs
• SAVE courier charges
• SAVE time
• SAVE printing and copying costs                

A. Tendering - Traditionally

Tendering - Electronically