Introduction
Access to appropriate technology procurement frameworks represents a strategic imperative for IT service providers and technology suppliers seeking sustained public sector engagement in 2026. Dynamic Purchasing Systems continue to provide the most flexible procurement route, enabling suppliers to join throughout the framework duration whilst maintaining regulatory compliance and competitive market positioning.
We have identified six technology-focused frameworks currently accepting applications across diverse service categories. Each operates as a Dynamic Purchasing System, providing continuous market access for specialist services ranging from automation and digital transformation through to cybersecurity, quality assurance, and telecommunications. Understanding which frameworks align with your technology capabilities enables effective positioning within public sector supply chains.
The frameworks detailed below reflect current opportunities across central government, NHS, education, and Scottish public sectors. Each section outlines framework authority details, operational timescales, service scope, and the types of contracts typically procured through each system.
Automation Marketplace DPS
Framework Authority: Crown Commercial Service
Framework Type: Dynamic Purchasing System
End Date: 15 November 2026
Sector Focus: Government departments and public sector organisations
What the Framework Covers
The Crown Commercial Service operates this DPS to provide government departments and public sector organisations with structured access to automation applications and services supporting digital transformation initiatives. The system enables efficient procurement of automation solutions and software licences across diverse operational requirements.
Services available include automation applications and software licences tailored to organisational needs, strategic consultancy services focusing on business transformation through automation, solutions for complex problem-solving using advanced technology, and provision of resources and training to ensure successful implementation and utilisation of automation tools.
The framework welcomes applications from established technology firms, niche automation specialists, and software providers. The continuous application window ensures the DPS remains current with technological advancements and emerging supplier capabilities, allowing newcomers to access the public sector market throughout the framework duration.
Further Information: https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/021972-2024
Non-Clinical Systems DPS
Framework Authority: NHS North of England Collaborative Procurement Hub
Framework Type: Dynamic Purchasing System
End Date: 18 February 2029
Procurement Options: Full competition or Supplier Sourcing Tool for straightforward purchases
What the Framework Covers
This DPS provides NHS authorities with flexible access to non-clinical technology systems essential for healthcare service delivery. The framework organises suppliers across multiple categories, with the structure designed to expand over time to accommodate emerging technologies and supplier capabilities. Contracting authorities can select between full competitive processes for complex requirements or streamlined procurement using the Supplier Sourcing Tool for price-based purchases.
Services encompassed include administrative software for scheduling, resource management, and human resources, financial management systems encompassing billing, accounting, and reporting tools, IT infrastructure solutions including networking, data storage, and cybersecurity services, communication systems including telephony and internal communication platforms, and facility management software supporting maintenance and operational requirements across healthcare facilities.
The framework welcomes applications from technology vendors, software developers, IT infrastructure specialists, and other businesses supplying non-clinical systems tailored to healthcare environments. The dynamic structure permits continuous supplier applications throughout the operational period, ensuring ongoing access to innovative solutions and providers.
Further Information: https://www.noecpc.nhs.uk/contracts/non-clinical-systems-dynamic-purchasing-system-noe-0274
Telephony DPS
Framework Authority: Jisc
Framework Type: Dynamic Purchasing System
End Date: Ongoing (no fixed expiry)
Key Feature: Fast and reliable data transfer through the Janet Network
What the Framework Covers
Jisc operates this DPS to provide educational and research organisations with efficient procurement access to comprehensive telephony services. The framework delivers the additional benefit of fast and reliable data transfer through the Janet Network, ensuring communication services meet the demanding requirements of academic and research environments.
Services available include traditional and VoIP telephony systems installation and maintenance, unified communications solutions, mobile telephony services, call centre solutions, conferencing services including video and audio conferencing, network connectivity and data transfer services through the Janet Network, and managed telephony services and consultancy. This comprehensive scope addresses diverse telecommunication requirements through a single procurement system.
The framework welcomes applications from providers of telephony equipment, service providers of VoIP and unified communications, mobile operators, and consultants specialising in telecommunication solutions. The flexible DPS structure allows suppliers to join throughout the operational period, ensuring the framework remains competitive and responsive to evolving telecommunication technologies.
Further Information: https://www.jisc.ac.uk/telephony-dps/
APUC Digital Technology and Cyber Services DPS
Framework Authority: Advanced Procurement for Universities and Colleges (APUC)
Framework Type: Dynamic Purchasing System
End Date: 3 January 2027
Sector Focus: Higher education institutions
What the Framework Covers
APUC operates this DPS to provide higher education institutions with access to comprehensive digital technology and cybersecurity services. The framework addresses the evolving technological requirements of universities and colleges, supporting both routine IT operations and complex digital transformation initiatives.
Services encompassed include cybersecurity services including risk assessments, threat detection, and incident response, IT consultancy and support services, software development and implementation, cloud computing solutions, data centre management and hosting, network infrastructure design and maintenance, digital transformation services, and managed IT services. This comprehensive scope accommodates evolving technology needs as they emerge.
The framework welcomes applications from small specialist firms through to larger IT service providers. The flexible structure permits supplier applications throughout the framework duration, ensuring accessibility for companies introducing new technologies or services whilst maintaining alignment with higher education sector requirements.
Further Information: https://www.apuc-scot.ac.uk/#!/contracts
Scottish Government Digital Technology and Cyber Services DPS
Framework Authority: Scottish Government
Framework Type: Dynamic Purchasing System
End Date: Ongoing (no fixed expiry)
Geographic Scope: Scottish public sector organisations
What the Framework Covers
The Scottish Government operates this DPS to provide Scottish public sector organisations with comprehensive access to digital technology and cybersecurity services. The framework addresses diverse technological requirements across public sector operations, supporting both routine IT needs and complex digital transformation projects.
Services available include IT consultancy and systems integration, software development and implementation, cybersecurity solutions and threat assessment, cloud services and data management, digital transformation projects, network design and support, IT infrastructure and hardware provision, and data analytics and business intelligence. This extensive scope enables public sector organisations to address both routine and complex technological challenges.
The framework welcomes applications from small and medium enterprises through to larger technology firms offering digital and cyber services. The flexible DPS structure permits supplier applications throughout the framework lifespan, encouraging participation from diverse service providers and ensuring the framework incorporates innovative solutions aligned with technological advancements.
Further Information: https://www.gov.scot/publications/procurement-digital-technology-and-cyber-services-dps/
Quality Assurance and Testing for IT Systems 2
Framework Authority: Crown Commercial Service
Framework Type: Dynamic Purchasing System
End Date: Ongoing (no fixed expiry)
Reference: RM6148
What the Framework Covers
The Crown Commercial Service operates this DPS to provide public sector organisations with access to comprehensive quality assurance and testing services for IT systems. The framework ensures contracting authorities can maintain high standards across technology implementations whilst accessing specialist testing expertise.
Services available include functional testing of software applications to ensure compliance with required specifications, performance testing to assess system efficiency under various conditions, security testing to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities, usability testing to enhance user experience and accessibility, automated testing services to streamline repetitive testing tasks, and quality assurance consultancy to develop and implement robust testing strategies.
The framework welcomes applications from small specialist firms through to larger consultancies with extensive IT testing and quality assurance experience. The open DPS structure permits supplier applications throughout the framework lifetime, ensuring the system remains dynamic and responsive to new market entrants, evolving technologies, and innovative testing methodologies.
Further Information: https://www.crowncommercial.gov.uk/agreements/RM6148
Conclusion
The six frameworks detailed above represent current strategic opportunities for technology service providers seeking sustained public sector market access in 2026. Each operates as a Dynamic Purchasing System, providing flexibility to apply throughout the framework lifespan whilst maintaining appropriate quality thresholds and compliance standards.
Successful framework access depends upon demonstrating relevant technical capability, proven track record, and appropriate resources across your specialist technology domains. Application processes vary across frameworks, but all emphasise evidence-based assessment of supplier competence, security credentials, and service delivery capability.
We encourage you to review these opportunities against your current technology capabilities and capacity. Where alignment exists between your service profile and framework requirements, early application allows you to position your business within appropriate supply chains ahead of peak tendering periods.
Should you require support in developing framework applications or understanding assessment requirements, we are available to discuss how our procurement consulting services can strengthen your submission quality and competitive positioning.
