The GCF Core Services contract is a monolithic IT Services contract between individual public sector organisations and their supplier. It provides the core services that allow government’s private internet to operate. The primary services at issue are the GCF Email Relay, DNS (Domain Name Services), the Peer-to-Peer Gateway and NTP (Network Time Protocol).
The GCF Exit Services contract ended in March 2019. The Crown Commercial Service negotiated with the supplier for an extension of the services under new contract terms. This extension is for 12 months, with an option for a further 6 months. We do not know of any facility within the extension contract to extend beyond September 2020.
Over the past 3 years, M4 Digital Group has supported UK government in its GCF Exit programme and helped to engage senior leaders to understand and scope the basis for individual department or agency GCF Exits.
Our mandate has included:
- Setting the strategy and direction of the programme
- Development of requirements for alternative solutions
- Researching and preparing guidance to support organisations with their exit strategies
- Procurement of critical IT infrastructure
- Delivery of front-line solutions that have tested new ways of operating
- Leadership engagement, political support and digital investment
- Uplift in change capability and capacity
M4 are now focused on supporting clients execute the strategy and move away from GCF Core Services, GSI Family e-mail domains and where appropriate PSN itself.
This support scopes the basis for individual department or agency GCF Exit and can include:
- Development of blueprint approach for GCF Exit projects
- Analysis of service use
- Requirements gathering
- Design and implementation expertise
Please refer to our service description for Exit From GCF Core Services https://www.digitalmarketplace.service.gov.uk/g-cloud/services/90847958…