For many UK security companies – whether you’re providing manned guarding, CCTV systems, keyholding, or mobile patrols – the public sector presents a variety of opportunities. However, winning contracts through competitive tendering can be complex, especially when you’re faced with terms like ‘PQQ’, ‘ITT’ and ‘DPS’.
But what do they mean? and what’s the difference between them?
This blog will break down the meaning of each term, explain how the security tender process works, and outline how you can make your business stand out when going for a security tender.
What is a PQQ?
PQQ stands for Pre-Qualification Questionnaire.
This is the initial stage, where buyers will filter potential suppliers based on their suitability to the contract, before allowing them to progress onto the next stages. Essentially, it verifies that you meet basic legal, financial and technical standards for security tenders.
Typically, PQQs will cover:
- Business information – Legal name, company structure, number of personnel, contact information
- Financials – Annual turnover, relevant insurances held
- Compliance – Health and safety, GDPR, data protection, cyber security
- Technical capability – Past experience, certifications, staff qualifications
- Accreditations – SSAIB/NSI for CCTV, SIA ACS for manned security, ISO 9001, Constructionline, CHAS (GREAT article here on security accreditation)
PQQs are usually through an online portal (e.g. Proactis, In-Tend), and each response must be tailored to the specific opportunity that you are bidding for. Generic or vague responses are often rejected (here’s another great article on how to re-use old security tender content!).
What is an ITT?
ITT stands for Invitation to Tender.
This document is a more detailed, specific request for information, and will assess your overall value as a supplier, not just your compliance. You’ll need to explain why your company is the best pick for the tender.
For security tenders, ITTs are likely to ask the following:
- Your approach to security system design and specification
- Mobilisation plans and handover procedures
- Reporting and communication protocols
- Staff qualifications (e.g. IPAF, ECS, SafeContractor)
- Security guard deployment plans and rostering
- Data protection measures
- Maintenance schedules, SLAs and fault response times
- Use of HD/IP systems, VMS integration, or cloud storage
ITT submissions are typically scored using MEAT (Most Economically Advantageous Tender), meaning that both price and quality matter.
Many CCTV and security companies underperform on the written responses – especially when trying to communicate technical solutions to non-technical evaluators. So, make sure you explain what you can do for the client.
What is a DPS?
DPS stands for Dynamic Purchasing System.
This is a type of public sector procurement model often used in the public sector for commonly purchased services – including CCTV services and manned security.
How Does It Work?
- A buyer (e.g. a council, NHS, or housing association) sets up a DPS for a broad category like Security Systems or Surveillance and Guarding.
- Suppliers apply to join by submitting a simplified version of a PQQ.
- Once approved, you’re eligible to receive mini-competitions for specific projects or contracts.
Unlike frameworks, a DPS remains open indefinitely, so new suppliers can join at any time.
Why It’s Ideal for Security Firms:
- You can get approved once and compete for dozens of projects
- It reduces the need to find each opportunity manually
- It helps you build long-term relationships with buyers
Remember – approval doesn’t guarantee work. You’ll still need to submit competitive mini-tenders for each opportunity issued through the DPS.
Is Your Security Company PQQ, ITT and DPS Ready?
Bidding in the security sector can be longwinded and complex, but it can be made much easier with an organised, thorough approach.
While it can be done internally, professional bid writing companies (like us at Bid Writing Service) can significantly boost your chances of security tender success through expert bid writing and end-to-end guidance throughout the entire bidding process.
Have a security tender submission coming up? Why not utilise our expert security tender writers? Contact us at michael.baron@bidwritingservice.com or lauren.moorhouse@bidwritingservice.com to discuss your needs, or, fill out the form below!
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