Get to know the AI DPS

Crown Commercial Services have recently given a bit more info about the AI DPS. Get to know how it all works here, including when it opens for applications.

The Artificial Intelligence Dynamic Purchasing System, or AI DPS, is one of the latest routes to market on the scene from Crown Commercial Services. We’ve attended some recent supplier engagement webinars to get some inside scoops and updates on what to expect.

With CCS putting an estimated £100m value on the AI DPS, it’s worth having a look to see if you can get involved.

What is the AI DPS for?

The DPS has been outlined as a way for the wider public sector to get their hands on Artificial Intelligence solutions and services. They’ve broken this down further into Three Categories:

Scope of Engagement

• AI Discovery
• Licencing, Customisation and Support
• End-to-End Partnerships

Type of AI

• AI Applications
• Augmented Decision Making
• Data and Analytics
• Virtual Assistants and Chatbots
• Medical AI Tech (Which is broken down further into four sub-categories: Screening, Diagnosis, Augmented Decision Making and Improving System Efficiency).

Sector

• Blue Light
• Central Gov
• Devolved Administrations
• Health
• Local Gov
• Not-for-Profit

CCS expect the DPS to be for more off-the-shelf style solutions – compared to more bespoke services that are more suited for a framework like Digital Outcomes and Specialists (DOS).

When will the DPS open?

In the webinar we attended on 30th June, CCS did outline their planned timeline. This includes the AI DPS opening for suppliers on 5th August when the OJEU is published. As a Dynamic Purchasing System, it means that suppliers can apply to be included at any point during its lifecycle, but don’t wait around. If you’re not on it, you’re potentially missing out on big business.

The AI DPS will go Live for public sector buyers and organisations on 3rd September.

How does it work?

The AI DPS works in two stages. Firstly, suppliers take part in the Award Stage. This where you’ll have to prove you agree to the DPS’s standards and guidelines – CCS were very clear that interested suppliers should read all associated documents and make sure they fit the bill. Some of these include:

• Data ethics guidance
• The recently published Guidelines for AI Procurement
• Standards and criteria for AI and data driven tech in healthcare

Suppliers also have to provide info on their business model, including things like fraud checks etc. There are also more technically specific questions asking which services and technology you’re able to deliver.

Once on the AI DPS, suppliers will be invited to bid on tenders and opportunities put forward by public sector buyers. This is the Further Competition stage and where you’ll have to demonstrate your experience and how you can meet the requirements of the tender. Similar in a way to DOS, suppliers will have to make sure their bid writing skills are up to scratch!

So, there you go. A quick rundown of the AI DPS. As we’ve said before Dynamic Purchasing Systems provide a quick and flexible route to the public sector whilst still being compliant. As long as your team are aware and savvy on how to bid properly, the AI DPS can be a great opportunity!