Digital Outcomes and Specialists 7
Framework Description
RM1043.9 Digital Outcomes and Specialists 7 is an open framework run by the Government Commercial Agency (GCA, formerly Crown Commercial Service) and let under the Procurement Act 2023. It combines Digital Outcomes 6 and Digital Specialists and Programmes into one agreement with four lots. The current scheme started on 30 January 2026 and runs to 29 July 2027; the framework reopens every 18 months over a six-year life.
Context & Use Case
Public sector organisations use DOS7 to buy application development and user-centred design across the full agile lifecycle, from discovery and alpha through beta, live and retirement. It suits buyers who need a team to deliver a defined outcome, a delivery partner to build capability, or individual specialists to meet urgent needs. Opportunities are published on the Contract Award Service.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Digital Outcomes Lot 2: Digital Capability and Delivery Partners Lot 3: Digital Specialists Lot 4: User Research Studios and Participants
Lots
Lot 1: Digital Outcomes; Lot 2: Digital Capability and Delivery Partners; Lot 3: Digital Specialists; Lot 4: User Research Studios and Participants
Who Can Apply
Suits digital, data and technology suppliers of all sizes; the agreement is described as SME friendly. As an open framework, new suppliers can apply only when it reopens. The second scheme, RM1043.9.2, is expected to start in 2027.
Buyer Benefits
Buyers want agile teams and specialists who meet government service standards, available fast. They value one agreement covering outcomes, partners, specialists and user research, a regular reopening that brings in new suppliers, and published opportunities that make competition transparent. SME access also widens their choice.
Next Steps
Suppliers not yet on DOS7 should follow the RM1043.9.2 reopening page on the GCA website for timings and events, and prepare their application before it opens. Existing suppliers should watch the Contract Award Service for opportunities and keep case studies up to date.
How Athena Can Help
Athena's DOS7 application support prepares your entry for the RM1043.9.2 reopening, from choosing lots to writing selection answers and compliance-checking the submission.
Once you are on, DOS opportunities move fast. Our rapid bid writing support produces evidence-led responses to scored criteria, and our bid/no-bid discipline helps you focus on the opportunities you can win. We also model your likely score against rival suppliers on key opportunities, so you can strengthen evidence where it matters most.
