The G-Cloud framework allows the public sector to purchase cloud-based services without the need to buy into expensive contracts with single suppliers, encouraging cost-effective offerings from SMEs. The fourth iteration, G-Cloud 4, has attracted a record number of submissions with over 1,000 suppliers to the new framework.
Databarracks is a longstanding supporter of the G-Cloud framework having already provided services on the second and third iterations. Peter Groucutt, Managing Director of Databarracks, states that the latest framework is a clear demonstration of how the public sector is increasingly embracing cloud services:
“The framework offers a simpler, faster and cheaper way to purchase cloud services, ultimately removing the red tape which has previously restricted access to the newest and most innovative cloud solutions. The total number of services available from CloudStore now stands at 13,000 - a remarkable figure that really underlines the value and choice that G-Cloud 4 gives to the public sector.
“The rationale behind the framework has always been to remove the oligopoly that surrounds ICT procurement by providing public sector firms with greater choice when it comes to their IT infrastructure. In order to achieve this, innovative offerings from SMEs can’t be ignored.
“At Databarracks, we’ve always been a firm supporter of the G-Cloud framework. It’s encouraging that as we enter the fourth iteration, we are really starting to see some traction. Spending through the framework has risen to over £50 million, with the Cabinet Office confirming that 84 per cent of suppliers on the framework are SMEs. G-Cloud has always been about offering the best value and most innovative technology to the public sector through SMEs, and G-Cloud 4 is indicative of an encouraging few months for all involved.”
