Digital Technology and Cyber Services
Framework Description
The Digital Technology and Cyber Services (DTCS) DPS is a Scottish Government dynamic purchasing system that public bodies use to buy digital technology and cyber security services. It replaced the earlier DPS 2.0 for Digital and Technology Services, runs until 31 March 2027 and, as a DPS, accepts new suppliers throughout its life. It has four lots: projects and services, resources, digital training and cyber security. This framework is used by Scottish Government and APUC.
Context & Use Case
Contracting authorities across Scotland use it for digital transformation, agile projects and cyber resilience, commissioning digital projects, specialist digital resources, training and cyber security services. Buyers run a mini-competition among admitted suppliers for each requirement, giving them a quick route to specialist expertise without a full open tender. ICT products, networks and desktop maintenance are bought through other frameworks.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Digital technology projects and services Lot 2: Digital technology resources Lot 3: Digital training services Lot 4: Cyber security services
Lots
Lot 1 – Digital technology projects and services; Lot 2 – Digital technology resources; Lot 3 – Digital training services; Lot 4 – Cyber security services
Who Can Apply
SMEs and larger technology firms offering digital or cyber services suit this DPS. It is open to applications now, but with an end date of 31 March 2027 the window to join and win competitions under it is short, so firms should apply soon or look to whatever replaces it.
Buyer Benefits
Buyers can reach new and specialist suppliers as they join, including SMEs, rather than being limited to a fixed list for years. Each competition is run against the buyer's own requirement, so they can test price and approach for a cyber assessment or a development project, and the electronic process keeps award timescales short.
Next Steps
Apply now if you want to compete before 31 March 2027: check the selection criteria on the Scottish Government's DPS page, prepare company, financial and security evidence, and make sure your Public Contracts Scotland and PCS-Tender registrations are current. Also watch for the Scottish Government's plans after March 2027, since a successor DPS or framework would be the longer-term route.
How Athena Can Help
With only a few months left on this DPS, timing matters. Athena's DPS application team completes the selection questions, prepares supporting policies and checks compliance so you are admitted in time to compete in the remaining months.
Once in, our digital bid writers help you respond to competitions with win themes tied to each buyer's outcomes, and our public procurement bid guidance prepares you for whatever replaces the DPS after March 2027, so your evidence carries over.
