Maximising Social Value in G-Cloud 15: A Practical Guide for Cloud Service Suppliers
Navigating the Latest UK Government Framework for Public Sector Cloud Procurement
G-Cloud 15 is the UK government’s most recent framework for public sector organisations, charities, and government bodies to procure cloud-based computing services—including hosting, software, and support. Replacing G-Cloud 14, this framework introduces streamlined procurement, enhanced compliance, and the integration of Cloud Compute services directly into the buying platform. For both buyers and suppliers, G-Cloud 15 offers a comprehensive, competitive marketplace, now governed by the updated Procurement Act 2023.
Key Features of G-Cloud 15
Procurement framework: Enables public sector organisations to purchase cloud services efficiently, using a pre-approved list of suppliers.
Services offered: Includes cloud hosting, cloud software, cloud support, and—new to this version—cloud compute services, previously managed separately.
Supplier access: Provides buyers with quick access to a broad range of suppliers, including SMEs, making the market more inclusive and competitive.
Updated evaluation and compliance: Incorporates the latest procurement regulations (Procurement Act 2023) and mandates clear demonstration of social value.
How G-Cloud 15 Works
For public sector buyers: Browse, evaluate, and procure services directly from the G-Cloud 15 Digital Marketplace, using streamlined filters and comparison tools.
For suppliers: List cloud hosting, software, and support services for consideration by public sector buyers—eliminating the need for individual tenders and opening opportunities for a wider range of businesses.
Social Value in G-Cloud 15: Why It Matters
Under G-Cloud 15, social value is a mandatory and weighted element of public sector procurement. In line with Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 002 and the new Procurement Act 2023, social value must constitute a minimum of 10% of a contract's overall score. Suppliers who can clearly demonstrate specific, measurable community benefits—through job creation, sustainability initiatives, or community engagement—will stand out.
Step 1: Align with the Government’s Updated Social Value Model
The Social Value Model underpinning G-Cloud 15 is built around five pillars:
Tackling economic inequality: Commit to creating jobs, apprenticeships, or targeted skills training for underrepresented groups.
Fighting climate change: Reduce emissions and use environmentally sustainable practices, such as offering cloud hosting through zero-carbon-certified data centres.
Increasing supply chain resilience: Engage diverse local suppliers and SMEs, in line with G-Cloud’s inclusive marketplace ethos.
Building healthier communities: Implement initiatives that promote wellbeing or help address social challenges in the areas you serve.
Driving innovation: Introduce new technologies or solutions tailored to public sector needs.
Step 2: Make Your Social Value Proposal G-Cloud 15 Ready
Understand buyer priorities: Use the G-Cloud Digital Marketplace to research specific public sector customers’ social value goals.
Be specific: Don’t use generic CSR language. Tailor commitments—like hiring a precise number of apprentices from a target council area or switching to green energy for specific contracts—to the buyer’s requirements.
Show additionality: Explain how your actions exceed standard business practice and directly add value to the public sector contract in question.
Step 3: Demonstrate Credibility and a Delivery Plan
Utilise G-Cloud’s reporting capabilities: Clearly state the metrics you’ll use, referencing the Social Value Model’s recommended indicators.
Create a detailed plan: Attach a timeline and governance structure, outlining responsibilities and resources for delivery.
Provide evidence: Include relevant case studies from previous G-Cloud contracts, partnerships with community organisations, and testimonials from past buyers.
Step 4: Succeeding in the G-Cloud 15 Marketplace
Optimise your listing: Use clear, relevant keywords and detail the social value benefits your service brings to public sector buyers.
Engage proactively: Connect with buyers before procurement starts to understand their needs and build relationships.
Example Commitments for G-Cloud 15 Suppliers
Provide digital skills training placements for unemployed adults within target council boundaries.
Transition contract-associated hosting to zero-carbon providers, with regular energy usage reporting.
Sponsor local coding clubs and offer mentorship through your staff.
Partner with SMEs for service delivery components, strengthening the local economy.
Conclusion
By integrating these G-Cloud 15-specific strategies and demonstrating robust, deliverable social value, your organisation can gain an edge in a competitive market—delivering true benefit to public sector buyers and the communities they serve.
transformacy is the leading Social Value consultancy in the UK. We help clients of all sizes achieve the best possible evaluation marks in their Public Sector tenders. If you would like a free no obligation chat about Social Value tendering best practice and how we can support you, please get in touch.