Becta launches VAR ICT consultancy guide
Government agency opens up bidding on ICT procurement and consultancy services to VARs
Government agency Becta has unveiled a framework agreement giving channel partners bidding access to ICT procurement and consultancy services in the education sector.
The framework has been divided into two sections. The first is designed to handle ICT consultancy and is divided into a range of specific services, such as support and development of an ICT vision. The second section handles procurement consultancy to support the first section.
Nina Woodcock, senior management consultant at Becta's Academy team, said the consultancy framework is not designed to follow on from its appointment of 16 software license resellers last month (CRN, 18 April), but she admitted it could involve some of them. "It may involve some of the same resellers, but only if they offer consultancy/procurement services in addition to the software licenses."
Becta stressed that the framework is not intended to simply supply educational establishments with ICT consultancy and procurement services at the cheapest price. "It's always about value for money, but also about ensuring we make the best decision and invest the money sensibly and effectively," added Woodcock.
Becta's ICT services framework joins a growing list of already established government agency specialist educational ICT consultancy services, such as the Academies programme. The agreements will be available to educational institutions or their agents in the private or public sector.
Elaine Axby, principal public sector analyst at Quocirca, believes the agreement fits in well with Becta ICT frameworks. "There is a need for ICT advice in the education sector," she said.
"Resellers will need to consider the cost of bidding as it could outweigh the contract awarded," she added.