New NHS framework launched

With the new £3bn NHS procurement framework opening for applications. We've delved into what the new NHS Information Management and Technology Framework is all about...

The new NHS LPP framework, called NHS Information Management and Technology Framework,  is expected to go live in December 2019 and run for four years. It’s looking like this will be the go-to place for NHS procurement. But time is of the essence here: the framework is open NOW and closes on the 17th of July. So if you are interested in applying you better get a move on! Also, another important element to remember is: this is not a framework for everyone. It is a limited supplier framework with some heavy requirements (which we discuss further down in this blog) and a beast to apply for. Let’s dive a bit deeper into it….

What tech is the NHS Information Management and Technology Framework for?

The framework is broken down into 9 main Lots, which range from network infrastructure, to cyber security.

Lot	Sub-Lots
Lot 1 – Consultancy	Sub-Lot 1.1 – IM&T Strategy Consultancy Sub-Lot 1.2 – IM&T Services Consultancy Sub-Lot 1.3 – IM&T Transformation Consultancy
Lot 2 – Network Infrastructure	Sub-Lot 2.1 - Data Access Sub-Lot 2.2 – Local Connectivity Sub-Lot 2.3 – Telephony Sub-Lot 2.4 – Mobile Voice and Data Services Sub-Lot 2.5 – Conferencing Sub-Lot 2.6 – Network Infrastructure Management
Lot 3 – Hardware	Sub-Lot 1.1 – IT Hardware Sub-Lot 1.2 – Hardware Asset Management
Lot 4 – Software	Sub-Lot 4.1 – General IT Software Sub-Lot 4.2 – Finance Software Sub-Lot 4.3 – Procurement Software Sub-Lot 4.4 – Project Management Software Sub-Lot 4.5 – Informatics and Reporting Sub-Lot 4.6 – CRM/Portal, Website and Intranet Sub-Lot 4.7 – Innovation Sub-Lot 4.8 – Advance Pay Solutions Sub-Lot 4.9 – Software Asset Management
Lot 5 – Cybersecurity	Sub-Lot 5.1 – Information Assurance Solutions Sub-Lot 5.2 – National Cyber Security Centre Accredited Services Sub-Lot 5.3 – Security Management Services
Lot 6 – Hosting	Sub-Lot 6.1 – Hosting as a Service Sub-Lot 6.2 – Cloud as a Utility
Lot 7 – Operational Services	Sub-Lot 7.1 – Help Desk Services Sub-Lot 7.2 – Device Management Services Sub-Lot 7.3 – Data Management & Data Warehouse Services Sub-Lot 7.4 – Server & Storage Infrastructure
Lot 8 – Interoperability and Interfacing	Complete Interoperability and Interfacing
Lot 9 – IT Managed Service	Complete IM&T Managed Services Provision

Each Sub-Lot is capped, meaning that only a certain number of suppliers can get on them. This ranges from some Sub-Lots only having 3 suppliers delivering them, to others having 8 suppliers.  In total, only a total of 279 suppliers will be allowed to list on the framework.

Who is the framework for?

The framework doesn’t appear to be too SME friendly – as there are certain requirements suppliers must hit to be accepted on to the framework. Suppliers will be asked to demonstrate relevant ISO accreditations, such as ISO 27001 or equivalent. It also requires suppliers to have a minimum D&B score of 51.

How does it work?

NHS Information Management and Technology Framework includes a catalogue entry. With suppliers defining and maintaining their own service listing. This will include the range and scope of the services they can provide, and what potential buyers can request. Suppliers can also be invited to take part in further competition related to the Sub-Lot they are listed on. Most interestingly though, buyers can Direct Award through the framework. So lots of options there to work with, which will hopefully be attractive to both suppliers and buyers.

To apply for the framework, suppliers have to first complete the Selection stage of the application. This stage determines whether the supplier can meet the requirements and standards set by the framework. If successful, they will then progress on to the tender response stage, where they will bid for the Sub-Lots they wish to provide.

As you can see, this framework looks like it’s going to be a big one, with potentially lots of resources and time involved. With applications due to close on 17th July, don’t hang about!