5 Top Tips for MAT Procurement Leads: Getting the Best Value from Stakeholder Engagement Solutions
In today’s education landscape, staff, parent, and pupil surveys play a vital role in shaping strategic decisions across Multi-Academy Trusts. Effective stakeholder engagement helps CEOs, HR teams, and education leaders make informed choices that enhance staff well-being, student experience, and parental confidence.
However, selecting the right stakeholder engagement solution isn’t just about cost—it’s about securing maximum value for money and ensuring survey data is used effectively. Here are five essential procurement tips to ensure your MAT gets the best results when investing in survey and engagement solutions.
1. Choose a Provider That Goes Beyond Data Collection
Many survey platforms simply collect responses without offering actionable insights. The best solutions help MATs analyse, interpret, and act on the data. When procuring a stakeholder engagement solution, ask:
? Does the provider offer in-depth analytics and benchmarking?
? Will they support you in translating data into real strategic improvements?
?? Tip: A provider like Welbee ensures that survey results don’t just sit in a report—they drive meaningful change across schools.
2. Ensure Surveys Align with Trust-Wide Strategic Goals
Stakeholder engagement should feed into your MAT’s strategic planning at all levels. Procurement managers should look for solutions that:
?? Tip: Avoid one-size-fits-all surveys—look for solutions that allow tailored questions and trust-wide reporting.
3. Focus on Long-Term Value, Not Just Price
Budget constraints are real, but the cheapest option isn’t always the most cost-effective. Instead of focusing solely on price, consider:
?? The level of service and support included (e.g., analysis, training, action planning).
?? Whether the platform integrates with your existing systems (e.g., HR, school improvement plans).
?? The impact—does the solution genuinely help to improve staff well-being, pupil experience, and leadership decisions?
?? Tip: A high-quality solution can lead to better staff retention, improved student performance, and stronger parent relationships—delivering long-term savings.
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4. Involve the Right Stakeholders in Procurement Decisions
Since surveys impact multiple teams, procurement shouldn’t be handled in isolation. Make sure to:
?? Consult key stakeholders—HR teams (staff well-being), education leaders (teaching impact), and CEOs (strategic direction).
?? Understand user needs—ensure the platform is easy to use and provides reports that meet different team requirements.
?? Consider engagement—a great solution increases survey participation rates and drives positive change.
?? Tip: The best stakeholder engagement providers work collaboratively with MAT leadership to ensure seamless implementation.
5. Demand Measurable Impact and Continuous Improvement
Stakeholder engagement solutions should go beyond a one-off survey—they should provide ongoing insights that help MATs evolve. When evaluating providers, ask:
?? How does the provider help track improvements over time?
?? Do they offer post-survey support, such as workshops or action planning?
??? Can they help you refine future surveys based on previous results?
?? Tip: Welbee provides in-depth analysis and strategic recommendations to help MATs continuously improve their stakeholder engagement approach.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right stakeholder engagement solution is about more than just collecting data—it’s about empowering decision-makers with the right insights to create positive change. By following these five tips, procurement managers can ensure they invest in a solution that delivers real value, not just numbers.
?? If you’re looking for a cost-effective, high-impact stakeholder engagement solution tailored for MATs, Welbee is here to help. Get in touch to see how we can support your trust’s strategic decision-making.