Press Releases

OGC promotes the importance of robust telecommunication networks in the Public Sector

The Office of Government Commerce (OGC) is promoting its Next Generation Networks Procurement Standards, Guidance and Model Clauses to ensure that the Next Generation Networks (NGNs) which are used to deliver telecommunication services in the public sector are reliable and robust.

NGNs are the infrastructure over which virtually all telecommunication services, including voice, data, broadband and video-conferencing, are expected to be delivered. This technology is already being deployed and is forecast to replace the existing telecommunication networks over the next few years.

With this in mind the OGC has created a set of procurement standards, guidance and model clauses for organisations to use when buying NGN- based telecommunication services. These Standards will help public sector bodies identify and manage potential risks associated with this emerging technology.

Mark Pedlingham, Director of Markets, Suppliers and Skills OGC said:
"NGNs bring considerable benefits to users, as they are generally more cost effective and flexible than traditional networks. However, NGNs bring with them challenges, which could impact on telecommunication services. This is why it's important for public sector bodies to ask the right questions of suppliers. By doing this they can satisfy themselves that suppliers are aware of the associated risks and have taken adequate steps throughout their supply chains to ensure robust and reliable telecommunications."

The OGC published the Next Generation Networks Procurement Standards, Guidance and Model Clauses earlier this year. It has already communicated this information to central government and is rolling out the Standards to the wider public sector.

Notes to Editors

Next Generation Networks Procurement Standards, Guidance and Model Clauses

The telecommunications industry is currently moving from traditional technology to 'Next Generation Networks' (NGNs), based largely on Internet Protocol (IP). Telecommunications, including e-mails, phone calls or video-conferencing will be carried across these networks. The Government expects this to happen quickly as NGNs are generally cheaper than traditional networks, and offer greater functionality and flexibility. However, to ensure the reliability and integrity of this new technology, appropriate safeguards need to be put in place.

Next Generation Networks Procurement Standards, Guidance and Model Clauses have been created by OGC as part of the Cabinet Office led Next Generation Networks (NGN) Risk Mitigation Programme. They have been devised following a consultation with government and industry.

The Standards are primarily aimed at assisting public sector bodies, from central government through to local authorities and executive agencies, to procure NGN-based telecommunication services.

About OGC

The Office of Government Commerce (OGC) is an office of HM Treasury, responsible for improving value for money by driving up standards and capability in procurement, from commodities buying to the delivery of major capital projects, maximising the effective use of 60% of Government spending and a £30 billion property estate.

A new Government strategy launched in January 2007, Transforming Government Procurement, highlighted the central importance of procurement in delivering high-quality public services and best value for money. OGC is tasked with delivering this transformation, and with driving up standards and procurement capability across central Government.  The OGC will do this through:

• Setting procurement standards and monitoring performance and capability;
• Developing a cadre of skilled procurement professionals across Government;
• Driving value for money through collaborative procurement;
• Playing a stronger role in the successful delivery of major projects; and
• Improving management and use of the Government estate.

Media Contact:
Michael Dunning
T: 020 7271 1318
F: 020 7271 1345
E: press@ogc.gsi.gov.uk