Publication - Advice and guidance

Digital technology services dynamic purchasing system: guide

Last updated: 21 December 2022 - see all updates
Directorate: Scottish Procurement and Property Directorate
Part of: Public sector

Guidance for public sector organisations on how to access and use the system.

Who can access: all public sector
Contract status: live
Dates of contract: 18 March 2019 – 31 March 2023
Category: ICT services and software - national

Overview

The new dynamic purchasing system (DPS) for the provision of digital technology services is now live.

The DPS will support and be an enabler for a number of digital initiatives, specifically "Scotland's Digital Strategy, 'Realising Scotland's full potential in a digital world" and provide access to a range of digital technology skills, including cyber expertise, as well as supporting the delivery of agile projects.

This replaces our DPS1.0 for Digital Services and Digital and Technology Services (DATS) framework which expires in May 2019 - the scope of this framework is also included.

Suppliers wishing to participate should firstly register themselves on both Public Contracts Scotland and Public Contracts Scotland Tender systems.

Contracts are awarded via call-offs, issued by Scottish public sector organisations through the DPS, inviting suppliers to tender for in scope services.

What is in scope

The service will be split into three lots:

lot 1 – digital technology projects
lot 2 – digital technology resources
lot 3 – cyber security services

What is out of scope

The following will not be covered:

ICT products
direct purchase of software
maintenance of equipment
networks

There are other frameworks that are more suitable for ICT products and networks, as well as temporary and interim staff recruitment services.

If you have any doubts of the correct framework to utilise please contact a member of the ICT Services and Software team. Details are below.

Who can use this

The service can be used by:

central government
health
local authorities
universities and colleges
third sector (voluntary organisations and charities registered in Scotland)
other public bodies

Note: It is the responsibility of any buying organisation wishing to use DPS 2.0 to satisfy itself that it is eligible to do so. If there is any doubt, legal advice should be sought.

Benefits

Benefits of the service include:

access to a wide range of digital technology suppliers
easy access for suppliers, encouraging competition and SME participation
suppliers can join the DPS at any time, provided they meet the selection criteria
completely electronic process
streamlined procurement