i-Tools

The BBC has adopted electronic systems, technology and processes as the principle mechanism for engaging as well as paying its freelancers.

Our electronic services ensure efficient, streamlined and speedy interaction with freelancers from sending out contracts right through to payment thus eliminating the need for paper print and distribution.

Our electronic services include:

• E-contracting (the sending of contracts via e-mail)
• i-Sign via our e-Consent website (the acceptance of contracts online)
• i-Pay via out Supplier Self Service (a free online invoicing and payment tool)

i-Sign

We have made some changes to the way in which freelancers can return their contracts. Our e-Consent process will allow you to accept your contract online via our website.

Up until recently, the option for returning signed contracts electronically involved printing, signing, scanning & sending the image back by email. This was time consuming and most freelancers preferred to return their contracts by post.

What's changed?

All contracts sent via e-mail will contain a link to our e-Consent site. You can then use the site to:

• Accept your Contract
• Give agreement to comply with the BBC Editorial Guidelines
• Accept the BBC Data Protection Note
• Declare a Personal Interest

Acceptance of the above will be valid for a year; however editorial job titles will still need to accept each engagement/contract.

What are the benefits?

This simplified & streamlined approach will mean:

• You need to complete and return less paperwork
• Less paper will be used - an environmental saving
• A significant saving in time spent returning contract & documents in the post

i-Pay

In order to improve payment services to you, we have introduced an online tool called Supplier Self Service (SSS). This is a free personalised, secure web service which will enable you to create and submit your invoices electronically in seconds, avoiding the costs, uncertainty and delays associated with sending paper invoices.

What does this mean for me?

This service allows you to:

• create and submit compliant invoices online
• speed payment into your bank account
• track estimated BBC payment dates for your invoices
• monitor live purchase orders from the BBC
• monitor your invoice status and history
• print and save created invoices on your hard drive

Using SSS will limit any delays to the payment of your invoice. In the majority of cases payment will be received by your bank within 4 working days of your invoice being successfully submitted.

How do I get started?

If you haven't already received an email invitation, simply send an email to bbcfreelancecommunications@bbc.co.uk with the below information requesting a login to the service:

• vendor number (seven digit number which begins with an 8)
• email address and
• VAT registration number (if applicable, otherwise please state not applicable)

You will then be sent an email invitation allowing you to register for the service.

Supplier Self Service doesn't require any extra software or hardware, all you need is access to the internet.

If you have any questions, please email bbcfreelancecommunications@bbc.co.uk