Step 1 - Procurement

• Consider at the outset the full extent of what needs to be done, by whom and by when. Who needs to be involved? Are they being consulted?
• Seek advice from others (departments, local authorities etc.). It's always harder if you start with a blank piece of paper (like me, zerro in procurement world).
• Establish a complete procurement timetable with consultation periods, approval dates, invitation, receipt and evaluation of tenders, interviews, contract award etc.
• Ensure adequate time is allowed for the whole process.
• If you think that the project might be right for a partnering of framework agreement, built this in at the start.