A framework agreement is an agreement with one or more suppliers/providers which sets out terms and conditions under which individual contracts (call-offs) can be made throughout the term of the agreement.
A framework agreement itself is not a contract, but the call-offs made from it are.
Framework arrangements create a streamlined and flexible process for procuring goods, works or services Where a framework for the same goods, works or services is awarded to several suppliers, there are three possible options for awarding call-off contracts: direct award (or direct call-off), mini-competition or a combination of both.
Option 1 - Apply the terms of the framework agreement (direct award).
Where your requirements match the terms and/or specification of the framework agreement (in the event of any query, you should clarify the situation with the organisation that established the framework), a particular call-off should be awarded without re-opening competition. The call-off should be awarded to the provider who is identified as the most economically advantageous tender based on the award criteria used at the time that the framework was established (i.e. the supplier ranked no. 1). Randomly selecting a supplier off a framework is not permitted.
Option 2 - Hold a mini-competition between capable suppliers.
If your requirements do not match the terms and/or the specification of the framework, you should conduct a mini-competition exercise. Whilst it is not permitted to substantially change the basic terms or specification of the framework, in running a mini-competition it is possible to supplement or refine the basic terms of the framework prior to making a call-off. Examples of such terms are:
- The particular goods/services/works required;
- Particular delivery timescales;
- Particular invoicing arrangements and payment profiles;
- Associated services such as installation, maintenance and training;
- Quantity;
- Functional specification.
Under no circumstances should brand names or brand-specific descriptions of goods be used e.g. BIC Biro Pen, Hewlett-Packard Printer, Dell computer. Descriptions should give reference to the characteristics and outputs of the product or service. Where no other description is possible, any reference should be qualified by adding the words 'or equivalent'.
When a mini-competition exercise is held, all suppliers appointed to the framework that are capable of meeting the requirement must be invited to submit a tender. (This might just relate to suppliers within a particular 'lot'). You must not limit the mini-competition exercise to selected providers. A time limit for submitting the tender must be set and advised to competing suppliers. This time limit must be reasonable, taking account of the complexity of the requirement.
The call-off must be awarded on the basis of the framework award criteria and new criteria cannot be added, although, where permitted, the weightings may be varied to take account of a particular requirement. However, in adjusting the weightings, care must be taken to ensure that any such changes do not have an adverse effect on competition.
Option 3 - Combination of direct award and mini-competition
To use a combination approach, the procurement documents must state that this route may be used. The procurement documents will also specify which terms may be subject to the re-opening of competition.
Reference:
- Guidance on the Use of Framework Agreements
- CIPS study guide page 60-62
LO 1, AC 1.3

An insurance policy transfers a specific set of risks such as the fire and flood risk for a particular asset.
The legal liability does not transfer to the insurance company (known as insurer).
Reference:
LO 3, AC 3.2

Mark up is the profit as a percentage of total costs.
LO 3, AC 3.3

Developing and using generic specifications is as import in the sustainable procurement process as it is in the traditional procurement process. During this stage, human/labour rights and environmental performance criteria should be translated into specifications that meet specific requirements of the specified outcome, desired by the procurement action.
The specification stage is key to all types of contract. Building in environmental and social considerations at this early stage, provides a clear indication to suppliers that sustainability is important to the UN organization. Consider available alternatives which are less environmentally and socially damaging. Consider all the phases of a product's life cycle (e.g. production, transportation, maintenance, disposal, etc) when determining its cost and environmental impact. Assess the overall environmental and social integrity of suppliers by looking at their policies and practices.
Specifications which are output-based rather than input-based can increase supplier innovation, reduce waste and minimise harmful social and environmental impacts.
Reference:
- Sustainable Procurement
- CIPS study guide page 95-99
LO 2, AC 2.1

Regarding rule of offer and acceptance, there are some differences among legal system around the world. For example, mailbox rule is generally applied in common law countries such as UK, US, Australia,.. while it is ignored in civil law countries. To clarify on rule of offer and acceptance in international trade, offerors may use expressed terms in their offers. These terms known as deemed receipt protocol.
Reference:
LO 1, AC 1.2