CCS merges framework duo into £700m giant

New framework aims to better address government's printing and document-management needs

The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has outlined plans to merge two IT frameworks into one, which could be worth up to £700m as it looks to overhaul its print and document-management strategy.

In a recently published Prior Information Notice (PIN), the CCS outlined plans for the new contract – Multifunctional Devices, Managed Print and Content Services and Records and Information Management. The new framework will be worth between £500m and £700m, according to the PIN.

The new mega-framework will be created by merging two existing ones: Multifunctional Devices and Services, and Managed Print Services (RM1599) and Document Storage Frameworks (RM1689).

The document outlined the thinking behind the move.

"The Information Content Management category within the CCS is in the process of developing its strategy to ensure [it] is proactively aligning with market advancements and developing the best 'integrated' commercial solutions," it said.

It added that the ICM unit recently undertook an "extensive" review which looked at how its users' print and record-storage needs have changed.

"This engagement confirmed that customers are ready for a step change, recognising that a reduction in public sector print volumes and increased digitisation have also seen the accelerated move of the multifunctional devices supply base into the digital arm of records management."

It said merging the two frameworks made the most sense.

"By combining [them], this new approach will reflect the changing and maturing needs of current customers, as well as capture the needs of future potential customers who are increasingly demanding such solutions. [Their] custom is dependent on keeping up with both market and customer change in the management of its information."

The new framework will be split into seven lots: Lot 1, Print equipment and entry-level print-management software; Lot 2, Multifunctional devices and print-management services; Lot 3, Managed print and content-management services; Lot 4, Records information management service; Lot 5, Scanning services; Lot 6, Site Sensitivity Review services; and Lot 7, Audit and consultancy.