In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, public bodies are increasingly turning to cloud-based solutions to streamline their operations and deliver services more efficiently. In the United Kingdom, one of the most prominent avenues for suppliers to provide cloud services to the public sector is through the G-Cloud framework. With the release of G-Cloud 13, businesses are faced with a critical decision: should they apply to be part of this government procurement framework?
The G-Cloud framework offers a unique opportunity for technology providers, SMEs, and large enterprises to access a massive market with the UK government. It simplifies the procurement process, reduces barriers to entry, and fosters innovation. However, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution, and businesses need to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages before taking the plunge.
This blog aims to guide you through the decision-making process. We will explore the benefits of being on the G-Cloud 13 framework, the application process and provide valuable insights to help you determine if this is the right move for your business. Whether you're a seasoned G-Cloud supplier or a newcomer to the public sector market, our insights will help you make an informed decision and position your business for success.
Who is the G-Cloud 13 framework for?
At its core, G-Cloud 13 is tailored for public sector entities, spanning central and local government, the NHS, education institutions, and various public bodies. These organisations leverage the framework to source a wide range of cloud services. For them, G-Cloud 13 is a means to harness the power of cloud technology, streamline their operations, and deliver services more efficiently to the public.
In addition, G-Cloud 13 offers a unique opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups. It removes the red tape and financial barriers often associated with government procurement. This, in turn, opens the door for innovative and agile businesses to compete on an equal footing with larger, more established companies. If you're an SME or startup, G-Cloud 13 could be your ticket to expanding your reach and contributing to the public sector's digital evolution.
Don't be mistaken, however, G-Cloud 13 isn't just for the smaller players. Large enterprises can also get in on the action, offering specialised cloud services that meet the diverse needs of public sector clients. For bigger corporations, participation in the framework can diversify their client base and help drive the government's digital transformation initiatives.
Putting it simply, if your business specialises in cloud-based products and services, G-Cloud 13 is your playground. Whether you're a SaaS provider, cloud infrastructure company, cybersecurity expert, or a consulting agency, becoming an approved supplier gives you access to a substantial and lucrative market.
This framework is ideal for businesses offering groundbreaking solutions, allowing them to introduce their transformative technologies to the public sector. By doing so, they not only contribute to shaping the government's digital agenda but also drive technological advancements.
How many suppliers are on G-Cloud 13?
G-Cloud 13 stands out for its remarkable scale and impact - with 5,006 suppliers offering a 40,000 diverse services, this framework is a testament to its commitment to fostering innovation and streamlining cloud service procurement.
What's truly striking is the significant presence of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the G-Cloud 13 ecosystem. Over 90% of all suppliers fall into this category, demonstrating the framework's success in levelling the playing field for smaller businesses. A remarkable 72% of these suppliers are micro and small organisations, reinforcing the platform's role in providing opportunities for innovative startups and SMEs to showcase their capabilities and contribute to the public sector's digital transformation.
The impact extends beyond mere participation. The G-Cloud initiative has accumulated a remarkable £1.5 billion in commercial benefits over the lifetime of the agreement, averaging an impressive £150 million each year. This financial benefit not only reflects the framework's cost-effectiveness but also underscores its role in creating an ecosystem where public sector organisations can access cutting-edge solutions, drive efficiency, and meet the ever-evolving public needs, including social value.
What are the benefits of being on the G-Cloud 13 framework?
Being part of the G-Cloud 13 framework offers a multitude of benefits for both suppliers and public sector organisations. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Simplified procurement: G-Cloud 13 streamlines the procurement process, making it more efficient and cost-effective. Public sector organisations can easily find, compare, and procure a wide range of cloud services, reducing the administrative burden associated with traditional procurement methods
- Cost savings: By leveraging G-Cloud 13, public sector entities can access pre-negotiated terms and conditions, often resulting in cost savings. This approach ensures that taxpayers' money is spent efficiently, maximising the value of public sector investments
- Diverse supplier pool: G-Cloud 13 hosts a diverse and extensive pool of suppliers, including SMEs, startups, and large enterprises. This diversity encourages healthy competition, innovation, and access to a wide array of specialised services
- Innovation: Suppliers on the framework offer cutting-edge and innovative cloud solutions. Public sector organisations can tap into these technologies to modernise their operations, improve service delivery, and enhance their digital capabilities
- Flexibility: The framework allows for flexibility in choosing services, scaling up or down as needs change. This adaptability is crucial for organisations facing dynamic requirements and evolving technology landscapes
- Support for SMEs: G-Cloud 13 promotes SME participation, providing smaller businesses with a platform to engage with the public sector. This levels the playing field and fosters competition
- Transparency: G-Cloud offers transparency in terms of pricing, service descriptions, and terms and conditions. This transparency ensures that public sector organisations can make informed decisions
- Efficiency and speed: The framework accelerates the procurement process, reducing the time it takes to source and implement cloud solutions. This agility is vital in a fast-paced digital world
- Compliance: Suppliers on the G-Cloud framework must meet strict government standards, ensuring that public sector organisations receive services that comply with security and data protection regulations.
Why your business should be on G-Cloud 13
By joining G-Cloud 13, your business will gain access to a substantial market within the UK public sector. Government agencies at all levels, including central government, local government, the NHS, and educational institutions, use the framework to procure cloud-based services. This provides a unique and vast customer base that can drive growth and revenue for your business.
In addition, G-Cloud 13 is renowned for promoting diversity and inclusion in its supplier pool. Over 90% of suppliers are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and 72% are micro and small organisations. This offers an equal footing for businesses of all sizes, allowing SMEs and startups to compete alongside larger enterprises whilst allowing flexibility in offering and choosing services .
Gaining G-Cloud certification, demonstrates your business's commitment to security and compliance with government standards. This enhances your credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of potential clients, increasing your chance of contract award when paired with an effective public sector sales and marketing strategy.
How to apply for the G-cloud 13 framework
To become a supplier on the G-Cloud 13 framework, businesses need to go through a formal application process. This process is managed through the UK government's Digital Marketplace. Here are the key steps:
Register on the Digital Marketplace: The first step is to register your business on the Digital Marketplace. This online platform is the central hub for all government procurement, including G-Cloud.
Complete supplier application: Once registered, businesses must complete the supplier application, providing details about the services they offer, pricing, and other relevant information. This application is thoroughly reviewed to ensure compliance with government standards.
Await evaluation: The application undergoes a rigorous evaluation process, considering factors such as security, pricing transparency, and adherence to government regulations. Successful applicants are then added to the G-Cloud framework.
Update services on the Digital Marketplace: Once accepted, suppliers must regularly update their service offerings, ensuring that information remains current and accurate for potential buyers.
Engage in marketing and sales: Being on the G-Cloud 13 framework is not the end but the beginning. Suppliers should actively engage in marketing their services to government organisations and respond promptly to inquiries to maximise their business opportunities.
