The Government Commercial Agency (GCA) has launched G-Cloud 15, marking the most significant upgrade to the UK's public sector cloud procurement framework since its inception in 2012. The new framework, which opens for public sector use later this month, consolidates three previously separate frameworks into a single, streamlined agreement.
This consolidation aims to simplify and speed up the procurement process for public sector buyers, including NHS trusts and local authorities, allowing them to acquire all their cloud requirements through one agreement. The framework is valued at approximately £14 billion over a four-year term, with an estimated £3 billion in annual public sector cloud spend expected to flow through it.
G-Cloud 15 places a strong emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with approximately 90% of suppliers being SMEs. Measures have been introduced to lower barriers for smaller suppliers, such as an 18-month re-opening window after launch and regular intervals for joining throughout its four-year term. Philip Orumwense, Commercial Director and Chief Procurement Officer for Technology at GCA, stated that the framework directly addresses concerns faced by SMEs, including complex application processes and short framework windows.
The framework also features a comprehensive supplier evaluation process, assessing each vendor on quality, technical proficiency, and pricing. This is intended to provide increased confidence to buyers and reduce the need for lengthy individual assessments.