"We want to ensure GPS framework agreements are driving the greatest competition, and achieving a wider range of suppliers, including SMEs, in the ICT market," said Bill Crothers, government's chief procurement officer. "I have therefore asked David Shields to assess how we are using these frameworks so that we can achieve the most effective results for everyone.
"This pause will allow us to look at whether we are getting this right and how we can minimise duplication across Government.
The review will look at how effectively current and in-flight ICT frameworks are being used. Framework agreements are designed to remove excessive procurement procedures and the need for extensive tendering by helping buyers to choose from a list of pre-approved suppliers. However, SME's have long voiced their difficulties in successfully gaining entry to such frameworks.
David Shields, GPS managing director, will lead the review to assess all existing GPS ICT frameworks. As a result, there will be a pause on all planned GPS ICT frameworks whilst the review is ongoing. However, existing ICT procurement frameworks will continue to be used as normal, with buying not affected.
In a statement, Cabinet Office parliamentary secretary, Chloe Smith, said, "Our ICT framework agreements already remove excessive procurement procedures, but we want to make sure they are achieving the best savings and are easier and faster for both buyers and suppliers, including SMEs. That's sensible for the taxpayer and for businesses. That is why we have paused all currently planned Government Procurement Service (GPS) ICT frameworks to review their effectiveness.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): Helen Olsen
Quelle/Source: UKauthorITy, 31.10.2012
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