The UK public sector's commitment to digital transformation shows no sign of slowing, and the Digital and IT Professional Services 2 (DIPS 2) framework is one of the most significant procurement vehicles to emerge from that agenda in recent years. With a total value of up to £2.88 billion including VAT and an eight-year term, DIPS 2 offers digital and IT professional services providers a long-term, high-value route into some of the most strategically important organisations in government.
If you are considering bidding, contact Thornton & Lowe for an honest assessment of whether this framework is the right investment of your resources. Our specialist team can help you understand your fit and plan your approach.
About the DIPS 2 Framework
DIPS 2 is led by the Government Commercial Agency and is designed to serve public sector bodies with defence and national security requirements. Primary users are expected to include the Ministry of Defence (MoD), with the framework potentially extending to the Home Office and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), as well as other organisations with comparable needs. The full details are published on Find a Tender.
Unlike many IT frameworks that focus on infrastructure or software supply, DIPS 2 is specifically about professional services – the consulting, advisory, delivery, and assurance services that help government departments achieve their digital ambitions. For businesses that operate in this space, the framework represents a structured, long-term route to some of the most complex and consequential technology programmes in the public sector.
If you are newer to public sector tendering, our guide to public sector tenders offers a useful starting point before diving into a procurement of this complexity.
Why DIPS 2 Demands Careful Preparation
The defence and security focus of this framework introduces considerations that suppliers will not encounter in most commercial IT procurements. Security clearances, experience with classified or sensitive environments, and familiarity with MoD or Home Office ways of working are likely to be important differentiators. Suppliers that can demonstrate they understand the culture and compliance requirements of these organisations will have a meaningful advantage.
The eight-year term is both an opportunity and a commitment. It rewards suppliers who can demonstrate futureproofed capabilities and a genuine capacity for strategic, long-term engagement – not just project delivery.
Quick Facts
- Framework value: £2,880,000,000 including VAT
- Term: 8 years
- Lead authority: Government Commercial Agency
- Primary buyers: Ministry of Defence, potentially Home Office and FCDO, plus other bodies with defence and security requirements
- Scope: Digital and IT professional services
- View the opportunity on Find a Tender
Key Dates
- Engagement deadline: 31 December 2026
Tips for DIPS 2 Bidders
- Review the full notice carefully. The breadth of potential authorities means your submission needs to speak to more than one type of buyer – avoid writing narrowly to a single department.
- Address security requirements directly. If your business holds or can obtain relevant security clearances, or has experience working in classified environments, make this prominent in your submission.
- Be strategic about lot selection. If the framework is divided into lots, choose carefully. Targeting areas where your credentials are strongest will serve you better than attempting to cover every category.
- Think long-term. Eight years is a significant commitment from the buyer's perspective. Show how your business is positioned to deliver sustained value, adapt to evolving requirements, and grow alongside the framework.
DIPS 2 is a high-stakes opportunity for businesses with genuine credentials in digital and IT professional services for government. Competition will be considerable, but the rewards for those who secure a place are substantial.
For focused, framework-specific support, speak to Thornton & Lowe. Our public sector specialists can help you assess your readiness, select the right lots, and put together a submission that reflects your true capabilities.
