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Practical guidance on public sector procurement, frameworks, bidding and everything in between.

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07/11/26

DCC Level 0: what MOD suppliers need in place before DIPS 2 opens

The MOD has asked all industry partners to hold DCC Level 0 by 31 December 2026. Here's what that means for your bids, and for DIPS 2 in 2027.

Reviewing cyber security evidence and a checklist beside a laptop showing a shield and checkmark

07/11/26

When is Cyber Essentials required for public sector contracts?

Cyber Essentials isn't required for every public sector contract. Here's what PPN 014 says, when buyers can ask for it, and the G-Cloud exception.

30/10/26

PSSS: How to Get Listed | Webinar Replay

Only 3 in 10 supplier listings on the frameworks PSSS replaces have a published call-off. GCA still hasn’t said when the PSSS tender will open, and NS4 gave suppliers 6 weeks, so the suppliers who prepare early go into the application in the strongest position.

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Frameworks19/10/26

DIPS 2 (RM6413): a supplier’s guide to Digital and IT Professional Services

DIPS 2 is the planned replacement for RM6249. Explore proposed lots, evidence requirements, SME routes and preparation for defence and security services.

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Frameworks12/10/26

A supplier's guide to TECS 3 (SBS10529)

The TECS 3 tender has been delayed, and NHS SBS will confirm a new opening date. Here’s what TECS 3 covers, which lots may suit you and how to get on it.

Company Culture02/10/26

12 Years, 12 Lessons

What Founding Advice Cloud Has Taught Me 12 years ago, I started Advice Cloud with a fairly simple idea: help technology suppliers navigate a system that seemed designed to keep them out. There was no 5-year plan or…

Bidding30/09/26

You’re Losing Public Sector Bids, and You Don’t Know Why

Losing a bid without feedback feels like shouting into a void. You know the outcome, but not the reason, so the same mistake (whatever it is) quietly repeats itself on the next one, and the one after that. Here’s the…

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DOS21/09/26

Digital Outcomes & Specialists 7 FAQs

Advice Cloud has supported suppliers with the Digital Outcomes & Specialists framework (or DOS, as it’s often called) since its early days, through to DOS6 and now DOS7. We understand the framework inside and out - from…

G-Cloud17/09/26

G-Cloud 15 is Live, and You’re Not on It: Here’s What to Do

G-Cloud 15 is now live, with 4,233 suppliers listed across its 5 lots. Buyers can find them on the Digital Marketplace, then buy through the Contracts Award Service (CAS), either directly or via a further competition…