The UK Government has approved a contract worth up to £1 billion ($1.3 billion) to enable public sector bodies to transition to cloud-based services.
The Crown Commercial Service, part of the Cabinet Office, recently announced this contract under the G-Cloud 14 framework, the latest iteration of its cloud computing procurement program.
According to The Register, the new contract, which is part of Lot 4 in the G-Cloud 14 framework, involves 42 suppliers who will provide services to help public and third-sector businesses embrace cloud adoption. These services include planning, setup, migration, and support for various cloud services.
Workload consolidation and transfer are among the key capabilities, which include emails, files, calendars, applications, user permissions, and more. The framework also provides security services, quality assurance, performance testing, and training to ensure a smooth transition to the cloud.
Major players among the winners
Among the 42 companies awarded contracts are notable names like Capgemini, Ernst & Young, Deloitte, CGI, and SMEs such as Aire Logic and Version One Solutions. The Lot 4 award follows earlier awards for Lots 1 through 3, collectively valued at up to £6.5 billion ($8.2 billion). The competition for these services began in February, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernising IT infrastructure.
While the G-Cloud framework promises substantial benefits, it has faced scrutiny. A document from the Cabinet Office’s Central Digital & Data Office (CDDO) highlighted challenges, including vendor lock-in and risks that could undermine the government’s negotiating power. These concerns underscore the need to balance innovation with strategic oversight.
The transition to G-Cloud 14 demonstrates the UK’s ongoing focus on digital transformation, replacing the G-Cloud 13 framework, which previously engaged over 5,000 suppliers – 91% of them SMEs.
A shift in leadership
In the wake of the July government reshuffle, the CDDO will transition from the Cabinet Office to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. This approach may indicate a stronger focus on technological innovation in public-sector cloud adoption.
As the UK embraces its ‘Cloud First’ policy, regular reviews will aim to refine vendor selection and align with the latest industry standards. The G-Cloud 14 framework is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of public sector IT.
(Photo by Unsplash)
See also: UK government embarks on £366 million cloud migration for core systems
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