Advice Cloud has supported suppliers with the Digital Outcomes & Specialists framework (or DOS, as it’s often called) since its early days, through to the latest Digital Outcomes 6. We understand the framework inside and out — from both the supplier and buyer perspectives — and help suppliers apply, qualify for opportunities, and bid successfully for contracts. With Digital Outcomes & Specialists 7 on the horizon, here’s what you need to know about this ever-evolving, essential procurement framework
What is the Digital Outcomes & Specialists 7 framework?
The Digital Outcomes & Specialists 7 (DOS7) framework is part of the Crown Commercial Service’s (CCS) Digital Strategy for the UK Government. It serves as a primary procurement route for suppliers offering outcome-based digital, data, and technology (DDaT) services. These services encompass design, performance analysis, data, security, service delivery, software development, support and operations, testing and auditing, user research, and user experience design. DOS7 enables providers to supply both teams and individual specialists to execute projects for UK government entities.
When does Digital Outcomes & Specialists 7 open for applications?
The application window for DOS7 is now open! The ITT documents were released on 12th May 2025. Originally scheduled for October 2024, the launch was postponed due to delays associated with the Procurement Act 2023.
Suppliers have until 3pm on 20th June 2025 to submit.
What are the Lots for Digital Outcomes & Specialists 7?
The DOS7 framework is structured into four distinct Lots:
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Digital Outcomes: Suppliers provide teams to deliver digital projects through various stages, including discovery, alpha, beta, live, and retirement phases.
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Digital Capability and Delivery Partners: This Lot is designed for suppliers who can build capacity within public sector organisations, especially when there’s a need to deliver multiple pieces of work without the overhead of running numerous procurements.
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Digital Specialists: Suppliers offer individual specialists to deliver specific outcomes on services, programmes, or projects, addressing urgent needs..
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User Research Studios and Participants: This Lot covers the provision of venues for conducting user research activities, such as interviews and focus groups, as well as recruiting participants with the appropriate characteristics to test digital services.
The number of places available for award is unlimited across all 4 lots.
Will this 7th iteration operate the same as previous ones?
DOS7 is planned as an Open Framework, lasting 6 years in total with application windows opening every two years until 2032.
There are a maximum of 4 frameworks under this open framework. This competition is for the award of framework 1 in the scheme of frameworks.
- Framework 1 will have a contract period of 18 months with an option to extend up to a maximum of 18 months.
- Framework 2 will have a contract period of 18 months with an option to extend up to a maximum of 18 months
- Framework 3 (if applicable) will have a contract period of 18 months with an option to extend up to a maximum of 18 months, depending on whether CCS exercises the option to extend any of the previous frameworks.
- Framework 4 (if applicable) will be the final framework and will have a contract period of up to 18 months, again depending on whether CCS exercises the option to extend any of the previous frameworks.
How do I apply?
The application process for DOS7 will resemble previous iterations, with suppliers required to meet standard checks and regulations, primarily assessed on a Pass/Fail basis. Notably, Lot 2 may have additional criteria. While the application process is straightforward, securing business through the framework is competitive. Success hinges on effectively bidding for contracts and demonstrating value to buyers.
If you are an existing supplier for this framework 1 , and wish to participate in the competition for the next framework, which will be framework 2, you must ensure that you monitor Find a Tender Service for the publication of the associated tender notice and tender documents for the next framework in the scheme, framework 2.
What documents and certifications do I need?
All public sector procurement frameworks require certifications and proof of insurance. However, exactly what you need will be dependent on the route to market.
For DOS7, suppliers must have the following:
- For Lots 1, 3 and 4:
- Employer’s (Compulsory) Liability Insurance = £5,000,000
- For Lot 2
- Cyber Essentials Plus certificate.
- Employer’s (Compulsory) Liability Insurance = £5,000,000
- Professional Indemnity Insurance = £5,000,000
- Public and Products Liability Insurance = £5,000,000.
- Technical Ability Certificate (TAC) demonstrating delivery of two different service manual agile phases and delivery of four unique service capabilities. You can submit a maximum of two TACs.
- Carbon Reduction Plan template – only if there is no public copy available on your website
There are more documents to complete as part of the application process, but those we have detailed above are required certifications and documents you must collect yourself.
What can I do now?
Suppliers interested in the framework should ensure they are now getting a firm understanding of the ITT documents and preparing their application! This includes understanding the framework’s requirements, assessing internal capabilities, and strategising for competitive bidding. Engaging with potential public sector clients and familiarising oneself with their needs can also provide a competitive edge.
We also recommend having a look at what your target buyers and competitors are doing on the framework. You can do this easily by checking out our Spend Data tool.
As always, if you feel like you’d like to know more or want to chat about how we can help you get ready for DOS7, get in touch now.
