GOV.UK Clarifications
There are 123 clarifications for this DPS
4. 1. Timings. In the "Read First" document it is specified that the DPS is open to buyers competition from 13/02/2020. Could you please confirm how long does the assessing of applications take by CCS? What are the timeframes between the "Assessing" status flag and the "Agreeing" status flag?
2. NCSC assured services
a. Considering that 'Cyber services 2' (which was for NCSC certified services) is replaced by this new framework, what is the updated process to get certified by NCSC in relation to this new framework?
b. How are existing NCSC certifications applicable to the new categories of services in 'Cyber services 3' which were not in 'cyber services 2'. Example BCDR?
3. Pricing mechanism options
In schedule 5 (pricing details), if the option 'fixed price' is selected, does it mean the supplier must also provide the price or does this pricing option be accepted by the supplier as part of a tender process?
1. CCS have 15 working days in accordance with the PCR2015 to assess a suppliers submission in the event they enter into 'assessing' status, if they fail to meet one or more of the mandatory requirements for this DPS, as specified in the READ First DPS Needs document. However if a supplier successfully completes their DPS submission, they can be 'appointed' to the DPS on the same day that their submission is completed and electronically signed.
2a. NCSC certification is independent from CCS and this agreement. The process for getting certified has not changed. More information can be found on the NCSC website at: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/products-services/ncsc-certification
2b. NCSC certification does not apply to all the service types offered under this agreement. For example, BCDR is not covered by an NCSC scheme and will be "greyed out" under the filter for NCSC assured suppliers. Services not covered by NCSC schemes will be available via the filter for Non NCSC Certified and Assured Services
3. A fixed price model normally requires the supplier to providea price for a contract based on the specification and terms and conditions. The buyer will decide on the pricing model and will provide instructions to suppliers on the pricing information required, as part of a further competitionunder this agreement.
Answered
24/01/2020 13:33
3. Section 1.3 of the Buyer's Needs document reads: 'G-Cloud 11 no longer offers a route to market for non NCSC certified suppliers. The intention is that when live, all requirements for Cyber Services will go through this DPS Agreement.' Is this correct?
Please note that, as highlighted, the document narrative is incorrect. G-Cloud 11 still offers a route to market for non-NCSC assured services (NCSC assured services are not in scope for G-cloud 11). CCS will be amending the Buyer's Needs and Specification within the T&Cs document as v2.0 by close of play Monday 20th of January.
Answered
20/01/2020 10:48
1. Good Morning
The deadline for receipt of our application is unclear, please can you confirm?
Thank You
There is no deadline for completing your DPS submission, as the DPS remains open for the lifetime of it's duration. However, CCS would recommend completing your DPS submission as soon as possible to enable your service offerings to be available for buyers.
Answered
20/01/2020 10:43
