Open Frameworks, Dynamic Markets and the Future of Public Sector Procurement

As part of these changes, the Government Commercial Agency (GCA) is introducing new commercial approaches, including Open Frameworks and Dynamic Markets, alongside established procurement frameworks such as Technology Products & Associated Services 2 (TePAS 2).

For schools, multi academy trusts and public sector organisations, understanding these developments can help ensure future technology investments are both compliant and strategically aligned.

A new era of public sector procurement

Historically, framework agreements have been one of the most effective ways for public sector organisations to purchase technology.

They provide buyers with access to suppliers who have already been assessed against government standards, reducing procurement complexity whilst maintaining fairness and transparency.

The Procurement Act 2023 builds on these strengths whilst introducing greater flexibility into the procurement landscape.

Rather than relying on a single procurement model, buyers will increasingly have access to multiple routes depending on the nature of the requirement.

This means procurement can become more responsive to rapidly changing technologies, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and cloud services.

What are Open Frameworks?

Open Frameworks are a new procurement model introduced under the Procurement Act 2023.

Unlike traditional frameworks, which are often closed to new suppliers for several years, Open Frameworks allow suppliers to join at defined intervals throughout the life of the agreement.

This creates several advantages:

• Increased supplier competition
• Greater innovation
• More opportunities for specialist providers
• Better access to emerging technologies
• Increased value for public sector buyers

For organisations procuring technology, this means future framework agreements are likely to remain more current as the market continues to evolve.

Understanding Dynamic Markets

Dynamic Markets are designed to offer even greater flexibility.

Unlike traditional framework agreements, Dynamic Markets remain open for suppliers to apply throughout their lifetime, provided they continue to meet the required standards.

This approach is particularly valuable in sectors where innovation happens rapidly.

Examples include:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Cybersecurity
• Cloud technologies
• Digital transformation services
• Software platforms
• Emerging educational technologies

By allowing new suppliers to enter the market continuously, buyers benefit from greater choice whilst maintaining procurement compliance.

Why this matters for education

Technology in schools changes faster than almost any other operational area.

Five years ago, few schools were discussing generative AI.

Today, many are developing AI strategies, reviewing acceptable use policies and exploring how AI can reduce teacher workload whilst improving educational outcomes.

Cybersecurity has also become a board-level priority for many trusts.

Schools are increasingly investing in:

• Managed detection and response
• Multi Factor Authentication
• Identity management
• Device compliance
• Security awareness training
• Vulnerability management
• Cloud security
• Backup and disaster recovery

Procurement needs to keep pace with these developments.

Having procurement models that encourage innovation whilst maintaining governance helps ensure schools have access to the best available solutions.

Established frameworks remain incredibly valuable

Whilst Open Frameworks and Dynamic Markets represent exciting developments, established procurement routes continue to play a vital role.

Frameworks such as Technology Products & Associated Services 2 (TePAS 2) provide buyers with immediate access to approved suppliers through a trusted and compliant procurement route.

For many routine technology purchases, this remains one of the quickest and most efficient ways to procure equipment.

Joskos Solutions is proud to be an approved supplier on:

Technology Products & Associated Services 2 (RM6098)

Lot 8 - Technology Catalogue

This enables eligible public sector organisations to purchase technology through an established framework whilst benefiting from a straightforward procurement process.

Procurement should enable innovation, not slow it down

The pace of technological change isn't slowing.

Artificial Intelligence will continue to reshape education.

Cybersecurity requirements will continue to evolve.

Cloud-first strategies will become the norm.

Procurement should support this innovation rather than becoming a barrier to it.

The reforms introduced through the Procurement Act 2023 are designed to give public sector organisations greater flexibility whilst maintaining the transparency and accountability that taxpayers rightly expect.

For schools and trusts, that's good news.

It means procurement can become faster, more responsive and better aligned with modern technology requirements.

Supporting schools through every stage of their technology journey

At Joskos Solutions, we understand that successful technology procurement isn't simply about buying devices.

It's about creating secure, resilient and future-ready digital environments that enable better teaching, learning and organisational performance.

As an approved supplier on Technology Products & Associated Services 2 (RM6098), Lot 8 - Technology Catalogue, we're proud to help schools and public sector organisations procure technology through a compliant and trusted framework.

Whether you're investing in new hardware, strengthening your cybersecurity posture or preparing your organisation for responsible AI adoption, choosing the right procurement route is the first step towards a successful outcome.

About Joskos Solutions

Joskos Solutions has been supporting schools, trusts and public sector organisations with innovative technology for over two decades. As an approved supplier on the Technology Products & Associated Services 2 (TePAS 2) Framework, we help organisations procure technology efficiently, securely and in full compliance with public sector procurement requirements, whilst supporting wider digital transformation, cybersecurity and AI ambitions.

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