Soft Market Testing - Provision of a Care-experienced Dance Group in Nottinghamshire

This is a well-structured Soft Market Testing (SMT) exercise, clearly defining its purpose and requirements. While strong in clarity and social focus, it could improve transparency by disclosing an indicative value and enhancing practicality with explicit electronic submission options.

The tender clearly identifies itself as a Soft Market Testing exercise, not a formal tendering process, which is legally appropriate. The CPV code is relevant, and there are no reported disputes. The explicit 'Not applicable' for formal tender requirements demonstrates a clear understanding of SMT's legal standing. The classified value is a minor transparency issue but not a legal non-compliance for SMT.

The description of the SMT exercise is exceptionally clear and unambiguous, outlining its purpose to gather comments and ideas. The submission requirements are well-documented, and the explicit statement that formal tender requirements (e.g., evaluation criteria, financial, technical) are 'Not applicable' for SMT significantly enhances clarity.

All basic information, including title, reference, organization, and description, is provided. Deadlines and the duration of the future contract are specified. While the estimated value is classified, which is a drawback, the tender is otherwise complete for an SMT exercise, with all relevant documents attached and processed.

The SMT requirements are generic, seeking broad input, which promotes fairness. Full document access is provided. However, the classified value reduces overall transparency, and the lack of explicit electronic submission details (beyond accessing questions online) could pose a minor barrier to equal access and ease of participation.

The tender directs participants to a website for questions, which is practical. However, the instruction to 'return' the response form is ambiguous regarding the submission method, and the automated check indicates no e-submission, which is a significant practical limitation. The classified value also impacts the practicality for potential suppliers to gauge their interest.

The data provided is highly consistent and logical. Dates are coherent, and the 'None' designation for Type and Procedure is appropriate for an SMT. There are no reported suspensions or disputes. The only minor inconsistency is the missing 'Liable Person' field.

The core subject matter of the tender, providing dance provision for care-experienced children and young people, inherently addresses significant social aspects, which is a key component of sustainability. While there is no explicit mention of green procurement or innovation focus, the strong social impact is a notable positive.