The Council is aware of the advantages of trading electronically. There are time and cost savings to both the council and suppliers associated with the whole procurement process. The Council will continue to embrace the advantages available through electronic ordering and invoicing.
e-tendering is being introduced and will be rolled out across the Council during 2005. We have acquired an electronic tendering system whereby tender documentation can be provided to potential suppliers and tender bids can be submitted electronically. Although hard copies of documentation will still be available it is envisaged that ultimately all tenders will be completed electronically. The use of the e-tendering system will be free of charge and all that is needed by suppliers is internet access and an e-mail address.
Go to the Contract Opportunities page and view the e-tendering system
Preparation for the implementation of an e-ordering solution is also underway. This will result in orders being placed electronically with suppliers and in due course will allow invoices to be received electronically. Suppliers will be kept informed of any developments that will impact upon them.
Purchasing cards
The use of Purchasing Cards has successfully been introduced into the Council with a Visa Purchasing Card from HSBC Bank. The Purchasing Card is currently the preferred method of payment for the Council, although other forms of payment are available including BACS and cheque.
For suppliers Purchasing Cards are processed in the same way as a credit / charge card and benefits include:
- Improved cash flow - cleared funds are available in your bank account 3 to 4 working days after the date of purchase. For HSBC customers, uncleared funds will show on your bank account the following day. You no longer have to wait 30, 60, or even 90 days for invoice settlement.
- Reduced costs - you can remove the cost of credit control and debt recovery activities.
- No credit checks - accepting Visa Purchasing Cards is like a cash sale and there is no need to create customer accounts.
- Reduced administration - no need to process purchase orders or issue VAT invoices.
- Improved customer relations - you can focus upon building the relationship with customers rather than chasing for non payment of invoices.
- Increased business potential - you will gain access to a market of new customers including a free entry in the Visa Purchasing Card supplier directory.
- The ability to accept other card types - you will also be able to accept payment by any Visa card, along with MasterCard and Switch.
Your own bank will be able to provide you with further information.
Go to next page: Procurement Strategy >
