The G-Cloud 9 framework agreement is a government initiative in the United Kingdom that facilitates the procurement of cloud-based services by public sector bodies. This framework agreement provides a platform for suppliers to offer their cloud services to public sector customers in a streamlined and efficient manner.
The G-Cloud 9 framework agreement is managed by the Crown Commercial Service (CCS), an executive agency of the UK government. It was launched in May 2017 and is set to run until May 2019. The framework agreement allows public sector bodies to purchase a range of cloud-based services, including software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and infrastructure as a service (IaaS).
There are a number of benefits to the G-Cloud 9 framework agreement. For public sector bodies, it provides a simplified procurement process, as all suppliers have already been vetted and approved by the CCS. This means that public sector bodies can have confidence in the quality of the cloud services they are purchasing.
For suppliers, the G-Cloud 9 framework agreement provides an opportunity to offer their services to a large market of public sector customers. The framework agreement is designed to be flexible, allowing suppliers to add new services and adjust their pricing throughout the duration of the agreement.
In order to qualify for the G-Cloud 9 framework agreement, suppliers must first apply to the CCS and meet a set of strict criteria. These include demonstrating a strong track record of delivering cloud-based services, providing evidence of financial stability, and demonstrating compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
Once a supplier has been approved for the framework agreement, they can then list their services on the Digital Marketplace, an online portal where public sector bodies can browse and purchase cloud services.
Overall, the G-Cloud 9 framework agreement is an important initiative in the UK government`s efforts to make use of cloud-based services to deliver public services more efficiently and cost-effectively. By providing a streamlined procurement process and a wide range of approved cloud services, the framework agreement is helping to drive innovation and improve public sector outcomes.