Software Products and Associated Services

Framework scope

The framework covers the provision of a full range of software (including open source software), essential hardware and associated services and support and maintenance for cloud based, on premise and hybrid software solutions.

Indicative software requirements include, but are not limited to, the following application and system software categories:

• Accounting systems
• Bespoke software solutions
• Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) software
• Enterprise Software and business applications such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), data analysis, business intelligence, database tools, inventory systems
• Human Resources (HR) and payroll systems
• Microsoft products
• Operating systems
• Recovery and data back-up software
• School Information Management systems
• Security software such as adware and malware, antivirus, encryption, firewall
• Virtualisation
• Workflow management systems and software

Associated services may extend beyond the scope of the goods/services purchased and may include, but not be limited to;

• Asset management
• Consultation services
• End user support
• Installation
• Integration
• Project management
• Service desk
• Training

What are the benefits of using this framework?

• All our frameworks are free to access.
• This framework is fully compliant with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.
• Authorised participants can re-open competition within the framework, removing the need for a full tender exercise or lengthy supplier evaluation each time they have an Software Products and Associated Services requirement, saving time and costs associated with procurement exercises.
• Direct award capability giving you a quick, easy and PCR 2015 compliant route to procurement.
• The terms and conditions are safe and designed to protect you.
• Free and full support on using the framework through the Procurement Services team.
• You are able to benefit from aggregated spend and lower pricing based on the value of the overall contract, even on low spend orders.
• The framework will be managed and monitored by Procurement Services (acting for Kent County Council) on behalf of our customers and your views and requirements will be taken into account when reviewing and developing the contract.
• Social value is an increasingly important way in which we look to support our customers and communities throughout the UK. Social value is now a 10% weighting within every single new framework, so we can be certain that we are awarding suppliers who are committed to contributing to communities.

Who can use this framework?

All public bodies will have access to this framework but may only do so with the agreement of the contracting authority. Those organisations who may wish to access this framework will be members, affiliates and associates of local government authorities, the police service, the fire service, the NHS and NHS trusts, housing associations, third sector organisations, academic centres (including Academies), free schools, publicly funded organisations and publicly owned private companies, operating within the geographic boundaries of the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Northern Ireland and Isle of Man.

The framework will also be open for use by all other local authorities and public sector bodies. Full details of the classification of potential participating authorities and customer’s geographical areas and organisation classifications are detailed in the FTS Notice.

How to access the framework

This framework allows for customers to place their orders via direct award or further competition.

The customer is strongly advised to carry out their own due diligence before selecting whether they conduct a
further competition or direct award with any of the awarded suppliers. The customer will determine the requirement, specification and award based on the Most Advantageous Tender (MAT). Procurement Services takes no responsibility for the chosen contracting method of any individual customer.