The second iteration of the health service’s Digital Workplace Solutions procurement vehicle will allow NHS organisations to buy a range of computing infrastructure, as well as bespoke and off-the-shelf software

The NHS is seeking to appoint up to 30 suppliers to a multibillion-pound IT framework through which health-service bodies will be able to buy a wide range of hardware and software.

The publication of a contract notice by NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) – a joint venture between the health service and supplier Sopra Steria – marks the opening of bidding on the Digital Workplace Solutions 2 deal. The buying vehicle will feature a single lot and is hoped to come into effect in May 2025.

This is three months before the existing Digital Workplace Solutions engagement expires after reaching the end of a five-year term that began in August 2020.

Its replacement comes with an estimated potential value of £3bn, once VAT is included – marking a fivefold increase on the £600m indicative price tag that was attached to the incumbent arrangement.

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Both frameworks are intended to connect NHS bodies – and any other public-sector buyers that wish to use the agreement – with suppliers of core computing hardware infrastructure, as well as both tailored and generic software tools.

The contract notice advises potential bidders that the deal “is proposed to include, without being limited to… commercial off the shelf software licensing, bespoke software development, infrastructure equipment supply, infrastructure support and maintenance, [and] infrastructure management services – [including] equipment [and] software”.

“NHS SBS are seeking to appoint a range of value-add resellers and original equipment manufacturers capable of providing hardware, software and services to approved organisations,” the notice adds. “As part of demonstrating capability, bidders will be required to evidence the accreditations they hold with vendors to ensure the framework delivers maximum value for money. “We are committed to working with suppliers who are dedicated to sustainability and social value and there will be a significant weighting on these elements in the tender.”

Bids for a spot on the framework are open until midday on 7 November. Once submissions have been assessed, NHS SBS will award deals to up to 30 of the highest-scoring suppliers – or potentially more if scores are tied. Procurement records indicate that 32 companies were awarded a spot on the original Digital Workplace Solutions deal in 2020 – although the number of providers appears to have reduced to 27 since then.