NZAID

Approved Contractor Scheme


The Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) provides NZAID with a mechanism for retaining a pool of competitively tendered, pre-selected specialist consultants to undertake assignments on request. The types of assignments may include (but are not limited to):

  • Provision of technical advice
  • Evaluation of funding applications and project proposals
  • Preparation, appraisal and review of project documentation
  • Monitoring and evaluation of projects
  • Assisting with project management and stakeholder consultation
  • Undertaking research and analysis
  • Provision of training workshops and seminars
  • Participating in sector studies
  • Feasibility and design missions
  • Project or sectoral reviews.

The ACS aims to transform the way that NZAID contracts out small to medium sized assignments as well as how interested consultants can access future work opportunities with NZAID. The introduction of the ACS has minimised the number of lengthy tender processes, provided greater flexibility and choice in outsourcing work as well as an effective, fair and transparent contracting framework to meet ongoing operational demands.

Implementation process

The ACS pool has been established through open and competitive tender processes. The last tender process closed in May 2007. NZAID will publish regular opportunities for new applicants to bid to be accepted onto this scheme. Opportunities will be published under "current tenders". The current tender closes on 12noon, 8 April 2008.

ACS contracts

Successful ACS applicants agree to a Standing Offer with NZAID for a three year period. A Standing Offer confirms status as an Approved Contractor, and is not a contract for services or of employment. No retainer is paid and no work is guaranteed under this scheme. The Standing Offer represents a Panel Contract with NZAID.

The Standing Offer contains contractual terms and conditions and agreed fee rates that apply to all subsequent assignments. NZAID may call upon Approved Contractors to undertake assignments under the terms of the Standing Offer. Such assignments are requested on an 'as needs' basis.

Most small to medium sized contracts are awarded under the ACS. However, other work may be openly tendered, including:

  • Management Services Contracts, where project administration and management is outsourced to a team of specialist consultants.
  • Complex work where contractors input will be required in the design.
  • Work for which no suitably qualified or available Approved Contractor exists.

Pilot two way feedback process

From 1 August 2008, NZAID is piloting a two way feedback process for each ACS assignment. Under this process, the contractor provides feedback on NZAID performance; and NZAID provides feedback on the contractor performance during the assignment. The contractor can respond to NZAID's assessment of their performance. The feedback on contractors' performance is taken into account in choosing contractors for future assignments.

For more information:

 

Relevant link: wordNZAID Approved Contractor Scheme Standing Offer (199k)

Page Last Reviewed: 1 August, 2008