Buying Solutions awards Telecom Networks Framework Agreement
Date Issued: 08 January 2008
Ref. 22/07
A new, comprehensive range of high quality telecoms products and services is now available to public sector buyers following the launch of framework agreements by OGCbuying.solutions worth an estimated £500 million.
The Telecom Networks package features products and services covering the majority of generic telecoms areas and can be easily accessed online by visiting a bespoke catalogue with detailed information which will be available on the Buying Solutions' website in due course.
The arrangements also include provision for further competitions - including reverse auctions - amongst approved suppliers. Speaking at the launch of the four-year agreements, Phil Matthews, Category Manager, Networks, said:
"Telecom Networks is aimed at customers with a specific, defined, network requirement, who wish to specify and procure items such as voice calls, individual circuits, specific technology or detailed bandwidth or connectivity, broadband access and/or associated ISP services.
The successful suppliers have come through a rigorous selection process and offer committed prices backed by regular benchmarking. There is a broad mix from SMEs to the multinationals, which provides access to industry-leading value and innovation.
Compliance with security guidelines for Next Generation Networks, together with a full supplier management programme, means that customers can have peace of mind that these arrangements provide the quality, fitness for purpose, sustainability and value for money that they require.
And these products and services are available right now because all of the up front time and cost of procurement has already been taken care of by Buying Solutions."
Framework agreements have been awarded in 12 specific categories:
- Voice calls and lines
- Point to point circuits
- Infrastructure and connectivity
- Dark fibre - unused capacity within existing cables
- Connectivity to the kerb - connectivity required for transport telematics and control infrastructures as well as Intelligent Transport Systems
- Wireless data infrastructure
- Networking equipment
- ISP services
- The Enhanced Government Telephone Preference Scheme
- Structured cabling
- Third party maintenance
- Billing audit services
The Telecom Networks package is distinct from Buying Solutions' Specialist Solutions offering. Specialist Solutions suppliers undertake the responsibility of devising the inclusive telecoms solutions and / or provide a managed service incorporating any or all of network design, training, integration or network management services.
Ends
Notes to Editor
OGCbuying.solutions is the trading arm of the Office of Government Commerce (OGC), which is itself an office of HM Treasury. The Office of Government Commerce (OGC) is an office of HM Treasury, responsible for improving value for money by driving up standards and capability in procurement, from commodities buying to the delivery of major capital projects, maximising the effective use of 60% of Government spending and a £30 billion property estate.
A new Government strategy launched in January 2007 entitled 'Transforming Government Procurement', highlighted the central importance of procurement in delivering high-quality public services and best value for money. OGC is tasked with delivering this transformation, and with driving up standards and procurement capability across central Government. The OGC will do this through:
- Setting procurement standards and monitoring performance and capability
- Developing a cadre of skilled procurement professionals across Government
- Driving value for money through collaborative procurement
- Playing a stronger role in the successful delivery of major projects
- And improving management and use of the Government estate
OGCbuying.solutions, launched in April 2001, provides public sector procurement professionals with a route to the products and services they need to maximise procurement efficiency and value for money. Its contracts and framework agreements offer substantial savings through significant buying power, economies of scale and strategic partnerships.
Rigorous tendering and evaluation processes ensure that products and services are checked for quality, price competitiveness, fitness for purpose and compliance with statutory requirements. These products and services are available through OGCbuying.solutions Catalist framework agreements, Managed Services and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs).
More details are available on the website: www.ogcbuyingsolutions.gov.uk