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The Link-up scheme offers a comprehensive supplier qualification solution which includes (but is not limited to) the following key applications:
Sourcing and qualification of suppliers in relation to specific UK contracts
Link-up is primarily used to source and qualify suppliers in the rail industry in relation to a specific contract or tender to be awarded, but is also used by many members for their non-rail industry requirements too. The majority of Link-up users access the Achilles Railportal and use the available criteria selection tools to create list(s) of suppliers for further enquiry or tender.
Compliance with EC Procurement Legislation & audit trail
Using Link-up assists with compliance with EC Procurement Legislation by enabling all suppliers to be selected through a fair, open and transparent process, with the option of recording an audit trail as proof. Achilles publishes a QSN in the OJEU each quarter to inform suppliers that Link-up is the means of qualification for the stated list of buying organisations. This negates the need for individual calls for competition to be published though these may still be published if desired.
Monitoring and development of existing suppliers
Link-up includes a facility to monitor specific suppliers specified by a user for events such as changes in their qualification status or information, changes in financial risk score and addition or discontinuation of products or services. Notification is sent directly by email.
Suppliers that are qualified on Link-up are scored based on an industry-marking scheme against their response to the product code-based questionnaire. This enables benchmarking of suppliers and the identification of specific areas where a supplier may need further development.
Integration with procurement strategy, procedures and systems
Link-up should be used as an integrated part of the procurement strategy and procedures, and is often used in conjunction with addition parts of the tender and contract award process including tools such as online tendering and reverse auctions. Link-up has the capability to integrate with other systems used in-house and often the nomenclature is used as a convenient means of reporting on spend. |