Network Services Framework (RM3808) allows UK Public Sector Buyers to buy a wide range of telecommunications related solutions. The current (and second iteration) of the framework was awarded in August 2019.
We expect to see Network Services 3 open for applications in the Summer of 2022. With an aim to go Live in early 2023, replacing the current 2nd iteration.
Network Services Lot structure
This is the Lot structure for the current Network Services 2 framework. We predict we’ll see the Lot structure for the 3rd iteration very soon, so watch this space!
| Lot Number | Lot Name | Number of Suppliers |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Data Access Services, WAN | 35 |
| 2 | Local Connectivity Services, LAN | 35 |
| 3 | Traditional Telephony Services | 25 |
| 4 | Inbound Telephony Services | 25 |
| 5 | IP Telephony Services | 35 |
| 6 | Mobile Voice & Data Services | 15 |
| 7 | Paging and Alerting Services | 10 |
| 8 | Video-conferencing Services | 25 |
| 9 | Audio-conferencing Services | 25 |
| 10 | Unified Communications | 35 |
| 11 | Radio Services | 25 |
| 12 | Security and Surveillance Services | 25 |
| 13 | Contact Centre Services | 25 |
In addition, organisations can buy Network Services on behalf of Public Sector organisations via the Agency Services route. This is supplied by the traditional public sector Telcos & Systems Integrators. The ability to appoint an agent to procure on behalf of the public sector provides additional flexibility for complex requirements.
Network Services 2 provisional timetable
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| Thursday 5th of April 2018 | PIN published |
| November 2018 | OJEU published (applications open!) |
| Spring 2019 | Award of contracts / Implementation activity begins |
| July 2019 | Expiry of existing Framework Agreements |
The framework has been extended by one year until 2023. So, as we said before, expect to see applications for Network Services 3 arrive in mid-2022!
Sarah FlowersSales Director at swcommsAdvice Cloud helped us become an approved NS2 provider, which has, in turn, enabled us to win bids for large-scale public sector communications projects. We will use the guidance given on our most recent bid for future tender responses to support our growth in the public sector marketplace. The Advice Cloud team have been a pleasure to work with and we would recommend their services.
Get listed on the Network Services 3 framework
Advice Cloud achieved a 100% success rate on Network Services 2, with all suppliers we worked with gaining a valuable place on the framework. Our experts are at hand to assist with the application process and submission for the Network Services 3 framework.
Our Network Services 3 Listing Services include:
- Supplier registration
- Submission prep and webinar
- Compliant in-house developed submission templates
- Bespoke application timeline
- Regular application reviews and suggestions for improvement
- Email support
- A dedicated Account Manager during the application process
