#006 - What is the Digital Marketplace?

This podcast summarises key information regarding the UK's Digital Marketplace, drawing upon two primary sources published on GOV.UK.

Main Themes:

1. Procuring Digital Services: The Digital Marketplace serves as a platform for public sector organisations to find and procure cloud technology and specialist digital services.
2. Framework Agreements: The Marketplace utilises a framework system to streamline procurement, with specific frameworks for different service categories.
3. Cloud-First Approach: The UK Government encourages a 'Cloud First' policy, urging public bodies to prioritise cloud-based solutions before considering traditional data centre hosting.

Important Ideas and Facts:

For Public Sector Buyers:

• Eligibility: All public sector organisations, including agencies and arm's length bodies, are eligible to use the Digital Marketplace. (Source 1)
• Service Categories: The Marketplace offers three primary service categories:
• Cloud Services ('G-Cloud' framework): This includes cloud hosting, cloud software, and cloud support services. (Source 1)
• Digital Specialist Services ('Digital Outcomes and Specialists' framework): This covers digital outcomes (e.g., booking systems), digital specialists (e.g., developers), user research studios, and user research participants. (Source 1)
• Datacentre Hosting Services ('Crown Hosting Data Centres' framework): This framework offers secure and reliable data centre space as a secondary option to cloud services. (Source 1)
• Cloud First Policy: The government's 'Cloud First' policy mandates that public bodies consider cloud solutions before opting for data centre hosting. Justification is required for deviating from this policy. (Source 1)
• Auditable Procurement: The decision-making process for procuring services through the Digital Marketplace must be auditable. (Source 1)

For Suppliers:

• Services Offered: Suppliers can offer cloud-based services (cloud hosting, software, and support) and digital specialist services (outcomes, specialists, user research). (Source 2)
• Framework Applications: Each framework operates on a defined application window to ensure consistent terms and conditions for all parties. (Source 2)
• Guidance for Suppliers: The GOV.UK website provides comprehensive guides for suppliers interested in applying to the G-Cloud and Digital Outcomes and Specialists frameworks. (Source 2)

Quotes:

• "All public sector organisations, including agencies and arm’s length bodies, can use the Digital Marketplace to find cloud technology and specialist services for digital projects." (Source 1)
• "The government’s Cloud First policy means you need to consider a cloud solution before you can choose datacentre hosting from the Crown Hosting Data Centres framework." (Source 1)
• "Each framework is only open for applications at certain times. This is to make sure all buyers and suppliers are doing business using the same terms and conditions." (Source 2)

Next Steps:

• For further details on buying or selling services through the Digital Marketplace, please refer to the full guidance documents available on GOV.UK.
• Public sector organisations are encouraged to explore the Digital Marketplace as a potential procurement route for their digital needs.
• Suppliers offering cloud and digital specialist services should review the framework guides and consider applying when applications are open.