They claim that laughter is the most effective remedy. In his latest series of articles, Nigel Milligan is sharing amusing yet meaningful anecdotes drawn from his personal encounters, aiming to bring a smile to your face and resonate with SBLs.
This month, I raise the question of whether framework pricing truly offers the best value to schools. To explore this, I wish to recount a humorous anecdote that may resonate with all of you. Throughout my life, I have embraced an open and sincere approach, always finding humor in situations. This mindset brings numerous positive benefits, making the workday more enjoyable and fulfilling.
Approximately two decades ago, I worked in a transport office for a civil engineering company. Building rapport with everyone in the company, I was known for my cheerful demeanor. One memorable morning, amidst a chaotic start to the day, a director (whom I hadn’t interacted with much) walked into the office. His greeting still brings a smile to my face – “Why are you always so (expletives) cheerful all the time?!!”
We were all taken aback, mouths agape, as he briskly entered his office and slammed the door shut! Swiftly, I retrieved a book from my drawer, always kept handy for such occasions. Knocking on his door, I entered and handed him the book along with some paperwork. Fast forward about 20 minutes, he emerged from his office chuckling to himself, returning the book with an apology, acknowledging, “Well played, I set myself up for that!”
The book? – ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People.’
As we near the end of another fiscal year, schools are grappling with reduced income and escalating costs. Over the years, I have collaborated with schools to secure the best deals on various items, from IT devices and subscriptions to internet connections, phone systems, and copiers. The market is rife with companies vying for schools’ business!
In my initial year working with schools, my primary project involved advising on and developing the IT infrastructure for a new primary school. Leveraging my business and IT background, I made significant contributions to the cost estimation for the school’s resources. The emphasis was on innovation and integrating cutting-edge technology.
This presented an ideal opportunity for the school to transition to Apple products and eventually move towards a 1:1 deployment of iPads. I engaged multiple Apple suppliers for proposals on iMacs and MacBooks. Ultimately, the governing body opted for the supplier offering the lowest price and assured timely delivery. Though the process was time-consuming, it proved to be a valuable endeavor.
Ensuring that schools receive optimal value for their investments is crucial. This entails exploring all available options and selecting the one that aligns with their requirements. The Department for Education (DfE) approved framework agreements have streamlined procurement, saving time and offering compliant options. While many academy trusts and mainstream schools opt for framework pricing, SBLs should feel empowered to conduct their pricing assessments for informed decision-making.
Exploring options beyond the frameworks or seeking direct deals may uncover alternative, cost-effective solutions. The key is to explore, as knowledge empowers just as much as laughter is a potent remedy – essential elements in school management, particularly when engaging with suppliers!
For further information on how INam Concept Ltd can benefit your school/company, please reach out to Nigel Milligan through the following channels:
Website:
Phone