Intelligent Automation
Framework Description
Intelligent Automation is NHS Shared Business Services' framework for automating routine administrative and clinical tasks in UK healthcare organisations. Three lots cover services to build an in-house automation function, off-the-shelf software and licences from vendors, and fully outsourced Intelligent Automation as a Service at a fixed price per process. Applications for this framework are closed, and it runs to 19 November 2027.
Context & Use Case
With workforce pressures, tight budgets and elective waiting lists, trusts automate tasks such as data entry and moving information between systems, so staff spend more time with patients. A trust can use Lot 1 to set up its own automation function with expert help and then take it in-house, Lot 2 to buy further licences, or Lot 3 to outsource automation entirely.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Intelligent Automation Services, from consultancy and implementation to support and handover Lot 2: Intelligent Automation Software & Licensing Lot 3: Intelligent Automation as a Service (IAaaS), outcome-based at a fixed price per process
Lots
Lot 1: Intelligent Automation Services Allows organisations to procure intelligent automation services from consultancy and implementation to ongoing support. It is designed for organisations who require the expertise and specialist support from service providers to set up and implement an in-house intelligent automation service for their organisation, with the end goal being to transfer the day-to-day running of intelligent automation back to the organisation. Lot 2: Intelligent Automation Software & Licensing Allows organisations to procure off-the-shelf intelligent automation software and licensing direct from software vendor suppliers. This lot is designed for organisations who are building or already have an established in-house intelligent automation function but require a compliant contractual route to purchase further software, solutions, and licenses. Lot 3: Intelligent Automation as a Service (IAaaS) This is an outcome-based, managed service solution whereby organisations can fully outsource their intelligent automation requirements to a third-party service provider. This lot is designed to make intelligent automation more accessible to organisations by allowing them to procure on an entirely outcome-based/service consumption-based, fixed price-per-process operating and commercial subscription model. It is designed for organisations who want to completely outsource the day-to-day running of services and solutions.
Who Can Apply
It suits automation consultancies and implementation partners, automation software vendors, and managed service providers able to price per process. Applications for this framework are closed, so suppliers not appointed cannot join until the re-tender, likely around 19 November 2027.
Buyer Benefits
The three lots match different levels of maturity: build capability with expert help, extend an existing function, or buy outcomes without in-house expertise. Fixed price-per-process pricing in Lot 3 makes costs predictable, and the framework supports NHS digital transformation targets and the Long Term Plan.
Next Steps
Appointed suppliers should prepare for call-offs with NHS process case studies, hours saved and handover plans. Others should prepare for the re-tender ahead of 19 November 2027: watch the Intelligent Automation page on the NHS SBS site, choose between services, software and as-a-service lots, and gather evidence of measurable time savings for NHS staff.
How Athena Can Help
For automation suppliers on this framework, Athena's automation bid writing turns process savings into scored evidence and builds win themes for each lot, from implementation to outcome-based services.
If you are aiming at the 2027 re-tender, our framework re-tender roadmap sets out the steps and documents needed for your chosen lot, and our public sector pricing consultancy helps model fixed price-per-process offers that win and still make money over the contract term.
