A rough guide to stages

Overview of the multi-stage approach model

The multi-stage approach builds testing and learning into the procurement process. This ensures a wide range of solutions can be considered. It lowers the barrier to participation for suppliers and supports smooth scaling from successful trials.

In a multi-stage approach, buying teams filer suppliers proposals through one or more layers of a funnel (Figure 1). Each layer represents a new phase of testing or evidence, where suppliers demonstrate, iterate and scale their proposed solution.

As stages progress, the number of suppliers involved decreases and the type of evidence and level of detail required from them increases. This culminates in the selection of one or more successful suppliers to implement their solution.

Each testing stage decreases risk and improves confidence in solutions. This way, it protects project objectives and reduces the overall investment risk.

When the end solution is unknown, this approach starts with an outcome-focused approach to market centred on a challenge statement. This leaves room for curiosity and new ideas. It can also be a helpful approach for buying known solutions where there is significant uncertainty about the preferred supplier.

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