Intro to G-Cloud

G-Cloud 12 opens for supplier applications February 2020. Before then, refresh yourself on what the framework is all about with this Intro to G-Cloud!

The G-Cloud framework is THE place to be for companies who are selling their cloud-based solutions to the UK government. Since its first iteration in 2012, £5.5 billion of sales have been made through the framework – of which 44% was through SME providers. Now in its 11th iteration, with G-Cloud 12 due to open for applications this Spring, the framework is a proven and successful way for suppliers and buyers to do business. For the new year, we thought we’d run through an intro to G-Cloud – to make sure you know what its all about and that you’re ready for G-Cloud 12.

Before we start, if you need a bit of a refresher on what a framework is and how they work, check out our How is a DPS different to a framework? blog.

Framework structure:

The G-Cloud framework is made up of three categories – which are usually called Lots when it comes to frameworks – these are:

• Lot 1: Cloud Hosting (IaaS and PaaS): Cloud platform or infrastructure services that help the public sector: deploy, manage and run software, storage, network usage and more.

• Lot 2: Cloud Software (SaaS): This Lot is for software that is typically accessed over a public or private network e.g. the internet and hosted in the cloud.

• Lot 3: Cloud Support: This is for the supply of support services regarding cloud hosting or cloud software. As well as help maintaining buyers’ cloud infrastructures, migration services and ongoing support.

What are the benefits of G-Cloud?

G-Cloud has many benefits to suppliers and buyers. Its no secret that we like the framework! Here are a few key takeaways…

• A quick and easy route to market
• Buyers have access to the latest technology and innovation with every refresh of the g-cloud agreement (each iteration only lasts a year)
• Buyers can choose suppliers easily – in an Amazon-style catalogue
• Procurement processes are fair, compliant and easy to use
• Allows buyers to direct award to a supplier!

You can read more about the Value of G-Cloud with this handy free article.

Who can be on G-Cloud?

Anyone who wishes to supply cloud hosting, support or software to the public sector can apply to be on the framework. There are the usual checks during application, such as meeting liability insurances, and adhering to Code of Conducts and Practices. Its more about being able to provide the right information for your listing to make it compliant.

The application process for G-Cloud has been fairly simple up until now (in comparison to other frameworks!). The Crown Commercial Service (CCS), who run G-Cloud, have announced that there will be a bit more to do when it comes to G-Cloud 12, though.

The process usually includes:

• Suppliers are asked as series of pass/fail questions regarding background and compliance.
• Online questions are asked about the individual solution or service offering. These make up the body of the listing and are what is called the ‘front-end listing’. This includes a brief description of a suppliers services, as well as a list of key features and benefits.
• New for G-Cloud 12, suppliers have to upload a mandatory Service Definition. Which includes a much more in-depth breakdown of a supplier’s offering.
• Supplementary documents also need to be provided. Suppliers are required to upload a copy of their pricing and terms and conditions

So that’s how G-Cloud works! We’re interested to see if there are many other changes to how it works when the 12th iteration opens up for applications in February. If you want a more in depth breakdown of the framework in the meantime, you can find this in our Ultimate Guide to G-Cloud.