The UK Government has approved a contract worth up to £1 billion ($1.3 billion) to support public sector organizations in transitioning to cloud-based services..

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Figure 1. £1 billion UK Contract to Drive Public Sector Cloud Transformation

The Crown Commercial Service, a division of the Cabinet Office, announced the agreement under the G-Cloud 14 framework, the latest phase of its cloud computing procurement initiative.

As reported by The Register, this contract, part of Lot 4 in the G-Cloud 14 framework, involves 42 suppliers offering services to assist public and third-sector organizations in adopting cloud technologies. These services encompass planning, setup, migration, and ongoing support for cloud integration. Figure 1 shows "£1 billion UK Contract to Drive Public Sector Cloud Transformation.

Key capabilities include consolidating and transferring workloads such as emails, files, calendars, applications, and user permissions. The framework also includes security, quality assurance, performance testing, and training services to facilitate a seamless cloud migration .

Key Contract Awardees

Prominent companies among the 42 awarded contracts include Capgemini, Ernst & Young, Deloitte, and CGI, alongside smaller firms like Aire Logic and Version One Solutions. This Lot 4 contract follows previous awards for Lots 1 through 3, collectively valued at up to £6.5 billion ($8.2 billion). The procurement process, initiated in February, underscores the government’s push to modernize its IT infrastructure.

Despite its potential benefits, the G-Cloud framework has faced criticism. A Cabinet Office document from the Central Digital & Data Office (CDDO) highlighted concerns such as vendor lock-in and risks that could weaken the government’s negotiating power. Balancing innovation with strategic oversight remains a key challenge.

Emphasis on Digital Transformation

The transition to G-Cloud 14 signals the UK’s ongoing commitment to digital transformation, succeeding the G-Cloud 13 framework, which engaged over 5,000 suppliers, 91% of which were SMEs.

Leadership and Policy Shifts

Following a government reshuffle in July, the CDDO will move from the Cabinet Office to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, reflecting a stronger emphasis on technological innovation in public-sector cloud adoption.

As the UK implements its ‘Cloud First’ policy, regular reviews will focus on refining vendor selection and aligning with evolving industry standards. The G-Cloud 14 framework is set to play a critical role in shaping the future of public sector IT.

Source: Technology Magazine

Cite this article:

Priyadharshini S (2024), UK Secures £1 Billion Contract to Accelerate Public Sector Cloud Adoption, Anatechmaz ,pp.112