Mobile Voice and Data Services: a new framework on the horizon

As part of the government's Mobile Services initiative, the Mobile Voice and Data Services framework is expected this year.

We’ve been looking out for the Public Sector Mobile Service framework for quite some time now. However, after expecting it this year, we’ve had some changes to the agreement. Crown Commercial Service have refined the proposed route to market and come up with a new Mobile Voice and Data Services framework instead. Meaning the originally planned Public Sector Mobile Service PIN has been retired.

Now, CCS are still pushing a programme of Mobile Services for the public sector and look to create usable vehicles to procure these solutions. So, this is where this new agreement comes into play. So what do we know about it? Here’s some info…

What’s it for?

As we said, this proposed framework has a lot similar to Public Sector Mobile Service we were expecting before. With that framework now removed from CCS’ pipeline, this looks to be taking charge for the services.

As you’ve probably guessed from its name, the Mobile Voice and Data Services route to market will be for the provision of mobile voice and data services. As well as associated hardware too. In the recently released PIN they even outlined a proposed Lot structure:

• Mobile Voice and Data Services – Services such as SMS, data, device hardware, supporting services (such as Security), mobile device management and more.
• Telecommunication Audit and Health Check – Services that provide auditing on spend and usage, offers analysis, recommend tariffs and more.
• Professional Support Services – Support services that help the public sector organisations with System and Service Integration, Strategy, Implementation services, and Integration and security solutions.

This is just a proposed Lot structure, though. With supplier engagement currently ongoing. CCS want feedback to shape this agreement and the scope, so interested suppliers should get involved.

When will we see Mobile Voice and Data Services arrive?

In the PIN published by CCS, they’ve outlined the date of 22nd October 2021 for it to open for submissions. This is far from confirmed, as supplier engagement is still ongoing. However, it does give a timeline of an approximate time to expect applications to open.

What can suppliers do now?

First of all, get involved in the crafting of this agreement. CCS are actively calling on interested suppliers to attend their events (here) that will help shape it.

On top of that, you can express interest by emailing the contact given in the PIN and making sure you get updates about what happens. Including key engagement events.

Lastly, make sure you’re putting this into your strategy. Prepare for it to arrive for applications and doubly make sure you can utilise getting listed. Agreements like this usually have competitive applications, and are capped, so ensure you’ve got the time mapped out to apply.