How the New Arrangements will Work In summary, the LSC will contract for the provision of assessment, recognition and practitioner development services. The successful units will as now, apply to Investors in People UK for a license to operate (for which Investors in People UK will charge a fee). Providers will only be allowed to operate if they have this license. The local arms of the LSC and SBS franchises will work with their provider(s). Employers will continue to pay for Investors in People services including assessment. The LSC will negotiate with the providers on the expected volumes based on the number of referrals needed to achieve the targets for Investors recognitions. This will be based on number of organisations within each of the LLSC areas served by the unit. The local arms of the LSC will agree any support towards assessment costs with individual employers. National employers will be able to access the support they require from the LSC or from Investors in People UK 's national unit, according to their particular needs. Establishing new Assessment, Recognition and Practitioner Development Units In order to identify suitable providers of Assessment, Recognition and Practitioner Development services, we will be mounting a bidding exercise. The bidding process Providers which are currently licensed will be invited to bid for this work. Detailed bidding criteria are being drawn up and will be issued in July. New arrangements will be in place by 26 March 2000. Existing providers will be invited to develop collaborative arrangements which draw on the expertise that is currently in place. Furthermore, bids will be expected to demonstrate a positive approach to handling any staffing implications in line with the principles set out below. It is likely that the Department will only contract with bidders who it is satisfied are properly engaged in discussions with exporting organisations and that it will meet its obligations under TUPE. Following this process, if suitable suppliers have not been identified, it may be necessary to move to open competition. Selection of successful bids The Department will manage the bidding process on behalf of the LSC. The LSC will chair a selection panel in the Autumn. Number and location of units The intention is to develop fewer multi-functioning units bringing together assessment, recognition, adviser registration and practitioner development services. Bidders will therefore be invited to propose collaborative arrangements that best meet the needs of clients and offer a seamless service. Bidding guidance will clarify the criteria.

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