SMEs’ chance of winning government tenders

Do SMEs get a fair chance of winning government tenders?Based on the Ministry of Finance Singapore, “Government procurement is conducted according to the principles of transparency, open & fair competition, and value-for-money. Government agencies are expected to evaluate all bids submitted by eligible suppliers fairly, regardless of the size of the firm.”
In fact, according to Senior Prime Minister of State for Finance Josephine Teo, Singapore’s local SMEs have won over 80% of government tenders for the past two years including major construction contracts worth up to S$100 million. This proves that business size does not matter when it comes to winning government contracts.
The government has also change some process in acquiring government tenders. Instead of prescribing the solution and shortlisting promising vendors, public agencies can specify their desired outcomes and the vendor with the best proposal may be awarded the contract without having to go through another tender.
Moving forward, the government remains dedicated to give more opportunities for local SMEs. They are eager to build strong track record for the SMEs while getting innovative ideas. Senior Prime Minister Teo also added that the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) recently started a programme which gives better chances to Singapore-based technology companies to get accreditation for government projects.
With these opportunities, SMEs should keep on updating their businesses. They should be able to keep up with the changing needs not only by the government but all of their stakeholders. Through the availability of technology solutions today, it is easier for them to improve their system’s workflow. Workforce, as one of the strongest asset of the business, should be maximized. Allowing employees to learn continuously will help enhance their knowledge and skills which they can use in working for your business. An online learning management system can help both SMEs and its manpower by providing them a single platform for learning and sharing knowledge. Through this, they can access the learning materials anywhere and anytime they want as long as they have internet connection.
Moreover, investing in training of employees will help boost productivity. Training courses online are very helpful to SMEs as it does not require their employees to leave from work because they can do this at the office or at the comfort of their home. The important thing is that SMEs will be able to choose training courses that is suited to their type of business. Also, it is vital that they will get these courses from reliable and accredited trainers to avoid wastage of time, money and effort.
The government is creating a lot opportunities for SMEs. It should motivate SMEs to improve their quality of service and address the needs not only by the government sector but as well as their regular customers.