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What is Technology Services 4?
Technology Services is one of the larger frameworks developed and run by the GCA. It is for the supply of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services, including technology strategy and service design as well as services to provide support with the operational running and ongoing development of an IT environment. This includes large-scale projects.
When you can join
Framework 1 was awarded on 12 December 2025 and runs to December 2028. Framework 2 runs from December 2028 to December 2030. Framework 3 runs from December 2030 to December 2033. Because TS4 is an open framework, new suppliers may join at the start of each scheme.
Technology Services 4 lot structure
| Lot | Services |
|---|---|
| Lot 1 | Technology and Digital Consultancy Services |
| Lot 2 | Transition and SIAM |
| Lot 3 | End User Services |
| Lot 3a | End User Services (low value and complexity) |
| Lot 4 | Infrastructure Management |
| Lot 4a | Infrastructure Management (low value and complexity) |
| Lot 5 | Application and Data Management |
| Lot 5a | Application and Data Management (low value and complexity) |
| Lot 6 | Major Technology Services Transformation Programmes |
Which lot suits your business?
These are the supplier types each lot is typically built around.
| Lot | Common supplier types |
|---|---|
| Lot 1Technology and Digital Consultancy Services | Technology and digital consultancies, including service design and legacy decommissioning specialists. |
| Lot 2Transition and SIAM | Service integration and management providers running transition between incumbent and incoming suppliers. |
| Lot 3End User Services | End user computing providers: device support, service desk and workplace services at scale. |
| Lot 3aEnd User Services (low value and complexity) | The same services at lower value and complexity. This is the realistic route for a smaller supplier and the lot most often overlooked. |
| Lot 4Infrastructure Management | Infrastructure and hosting managed service providers. |
| Lot 4aInfrastructure Management (low value and complexity) | Infrastructure management at lower value and complexity. Again, the SME route into this lot group. |
| Lot 5Application and Data Management | Application development, application management, database and data management suppliers. |
| Lot 5aApplication and Data Management (low value and complexity) | The same at lower value and complexity. |
| Lot 6Major Technology Services Transformation Programmes | Large systems integrators running whole transformation programmes. Expect this to be the hardest lot for a smaller supplier to win. |
Is Technology Services 4 right for you?
The following reasons for getting listed were published before award. References to the forthcoming application window and Technology Services 3 figures are historical, not current Technology Services 4 facts.
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, visibility and connectivity are key drivers of business success, especially for tech companies. One of the most strategic moves a company can make is to get listed on prominent procurement frameworks, such as Technology Services 4 (TS4). It is expected to open later this year, offering a huge opportunity for tech suppliers to enhance their market presence. If you’re still contemplating whether to get listed, here are a few reasons to make the move.
1. Broaden Your Reach
Listing your business on TS4 instantly broadens your reach. A wide range of public sector bodies use the Technology Services framework. It is largely used by Central Government departments, with HMRC, MoD, and Home Office being big users of this route to market. That’s not to say there aren’t a fair number of contracts coming from the health sector and local authorities, too! On Technology Services 3, Tussell identified 294 individual call-off contracts associated with the framework. This adds up to a whopping £3bn in total - that’s huge! By showcasing your offerings here, technology suppliers can significantly increase their chances of attracting new business.
2. Network and Collaborate
TS4 is not just a great way to gain business through public sector contracts - by joining, you open doors to networking opportunities with other tech businesses and professionals. The partnerships that may arise from this can help you offer more comprehensive solutions to your clients. Are there companies that are winning business via the framework that you can connect with or partner up? It creates supply chain opportunities.
3. Gain Credibility
Getting listed on TS4 is no small feat. It involves a rigorous selection process that assesses your company’s capabilities, financial health, and track record. Successfully getting listed not only boosts your company’s chances of gaining contracts but also serves as a testament to your expertise and reliability. It signals that you are a legitimate and recognised player in the tech industry. This recognition can be a powerful tool in marketing your services, not just to the public sector but also as a mark of quality to private sector clients.
4. Technology Services 4 Provides a Competitive Edge
Being listed on TS4 puts you in an exclusive club of technology service providers. It differentiates your business from competitors not on the framework. This competitive edge is crucial in a crowded market, helping to attract more business and build a strong reputation.
The previous iteration of the framework had no cap on the number of suppliers, although applying was not necessarily easy. It ended up with over 250 suppliers. With half of those being SMEs, it caters to those who may usually get fewer opportunities!
On the other hand, you can assume that your competitors are applying for a place on the framework too. So if you don’t bother, it’s likely you’ll be missing out on the business they’ll be eating up.
5. Cost-Effective Marketing
Effective marketing can be costly, especially for startups and SMEs. Listing on TS4 is a cost-effective way to promote your business. It offers a platform to showcase your services to a targeted audience without the hefty price tag associated with traditional marketing channels. Being visible online can also enhance your visibility in search engine results.
6. Technology Services 4 Simplifies the Sales Process
TS4 simplifies the sales process, making it easier for public sector organisations to find and procure your services. The framework’s design emphasises transparency and simplicity to eliminate the usual complexities of government contracts. This means shorter sales cycles, less administrative burden, and a clearer path to revenue for listed providers.
The benefits of getting listed on Technology Services 4 are clear. From opening up a significant market for your services to enhancing your brand’s reputation and simplifying the sales process, TS4 offers a unique and valuable platform for technology service providers aiming to grow their presence in the public sector. Whether you’re looking to expand your client base, showcase your expertise, or gain a competitive edge, TS4 provides a pathway to achieve these goals. Start the application process today and unlock the potential of public sector opportunities.
Free self-assessment
Could your business win work here?
Before you choose a lot or invest in a bid, take our free Buyability™ assessment. Answer a few short questions to see where you stand with public sector buyers, and what to fix first.
How to apply and what to have ready
Technology Services 4 is currently closed to new suppliers between schemes. It is expected to reopen to new suppliers in the second half of 2027
The content below was written for the previous application period and is provided here for reference, however, when it next opens there are likely to be changes which could impact some of the advice provided.
Get ready webinar
Our CEO Chris Farthing held a webinar about the Technology Services 4 framework. He was joined on the session by Crown Commercial Service (now GCA) who gave suppliers an important update on what to expect.
They cover:
- Why TS4 should be in your pipeline
- The main information you need to qualify for the framework
- Top Tips for a successful application window
- Q&A session
We hope you enjoy!
Original application preparation guidance
Suppliers interested in the framework can make sure they’re starting on their application now. There are many routes to market opening up this year. It may seem like the framework is an easy one to check off the list, but making sure you understand what to expect (get in touch if you’re unsure!) and ensuring you hit the mark early in the window (avoid that last-minute scramble!) is essential.
Our Technology Services 4 track record
- Listings supported
- 80
- Average quality score
- 99%
- SME share
- 55%
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Not on Technology Services 4?
It is an open framework, so it reopens to new suppliers between schemes. Book a call and we will tell you what to have ready before it does.
