Network Services 2 Lot update

We’ve written a lot recently about basics and background of the Network Services framework, but we haven’t gone into much detail on the structure of the Lots. Or what the thinking is for Network Services 2 (RM3808).

Network Services and shortly Network Services 2 encompasses a wide range of Connectivity services. Such as Wide Area Networks, Internet Access, Cloud Connection, Software Defined Networking, Local Area Networks, Voice services, Telephone systems, IP Telephony services, Mobile Voice and Data, Paging systems, Video Conferencing, Audio Conferencing and Integrated Comms! Quite a range, huh!

Network Services Lots

The current Lot structure of Network Services (RM1045) is:

1. Data access services
2. Local connectivity services
3. Traditional telephony services
4. Inbound telephony services
5. IP telephony services
6. Mobile voice and data services
7. Paging services
8. Video-conferencing services
9. Audio-conferencing services
10. Integrated communications

Whilst the structure seems straightforward, there has been a lot of confusion about the way services can be bought on the current iteration of the framework. Network Services has core services within each Lot with ancillary services relating to those core services also within the Lot. As it stands core services and ancillary services cannot be procured separately.

However, as we have mentioned in previous blogs CCS alongside industry trade body Innopsis are in the process of undertaking market engagement. And, you guessed it, the way the Lots work and the structure are key areas up for debate.

What’s the plan?

The Lot structure currently proposed by  Crown Commercial Service for Network Services 2 is:

1. Wide Area Networking
2. Local Area Networking
3. Voice
4. Mobile
5. Paging
6. Audio Conferencing
7. Video Conferencing
8. Security & Surveillance
9. Managed Services
10. Contact Centres

As you can see, it doesn’t look too different in terms of the types of services that will be accepted onto the framework.

But, regarding core and ancillary services we might be looking at a significant change. For example, it would be beneficial if ancillary services could be bought as standalone or combined with other ancillary services. This would mean that buyers can look for suppliers who, for example, offer a better deal on them rather than being tied to a specific supplier simply because they are purchasing their core service. This change would open-up new profit avenues for suppliers, particularly SME’s. Fingers crossed it is one that will be implemented for Network Services 2!

We shall see….

And, as ever we will keep you posted as when we hear of developments!