Microsoft deal sweetens public sector pricing

Government procurement arm Buying Solutions claims PSA09 deal could pave way for similar agreements with other vendors

Microsoft has signed a deal with public sector procurement agency Buying Solutions to offer more competitive software pricing to customers in the sector.

The Public Sector Agreement (PSA09), announced today, is the result of collaboration between Buying Solutions and key representatives from national and local government bodies to find the best value for the public sector.

It will mean the highest level of discount is available to all public sector organisations regardless of their size. Individual organisations will not have to negotiate their own deals, and licences can now be transferred between different organisations to maximise their use of Microsoft software.

According to the two sides the deal could pave the way to similar arrangements between Buying Solutions and other vendors.

Nicola Hodson, UK public sector director at Microsoft, said: “The UK public sector is a key customer for us and we have responded to its dual requirements for flexibility and best pricing.

“The new agreement is the result of an in-depth collaborative procurement engagement between Microsoft and the public sector, and will deliver cost savings while providing the technology that can help to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of 21st century public service delivery.”