Quick answer: A CCS framework is a pre-approved supplier list that allows public sector buyers to purchase without running a full tender. Getting on a framework is one of the most effective ways to win recurring public sector work — buyers can call off directly, often without competition. CCS manages over 100 active frameworks covering everything from cloud technology to facilities management.
What is Crown Commercial Service?
Crown Commercial Service (CCS) is an executive agency of the Cabinet Office that helps public sector organisations buy common goods and services. CCS negotiates and manages framework agreements on behalf of the whole public sector — meaning any central government department, NHS Trust, council, university, or other public body can use them.
CCS frameworks collectively represent billions of pounds of annual government spend. Getting onto the right CCS framework can give your business access to thousands of potential public sector customers without needing to win each contract through a full competitive tender.
How CCS frameworks work
Framework competition
CCS advertises a framework competition on Find a Tender. Suppliers apply by completing a selection questionnaire and submitting pricing and methodology. Successful suppliers are appointed to the framework for typically 4 years.
Buyer accesses framework
Public sector buyers can access the framework at any time during its life. CCS provides a framework agreement that defines the approved suppliers, pricing mechanisms, and terms and conditions.
Direct Award or Further Competition
Buyers can either award directly to a suitable framework supplier (Direct Award) or run a mini-competition among framework suppliers (Further Competition) to get best value for a specific requirement.
Contract awarded
The buyer awards a call-off contract to the winning supplier. This is a separate contract from the framework agreement and defines the specific deliverables, timescales, and payment terms.
Key CCS frameworks for suppliers
There are over 100 active CCS frameworks. These are the most widely used and highest-value for suppliers:
G-Cloud 14
RM1557.14 · Technology
Cloud software (SaaS), platform (PaaS) and infrastructure (IaaS) services. One of the most used frameworks in UK public sector IT procurement. Buyers browse a catalogue and purchase direct.
Digital Outcomes and Specialists 6
RM1043.8 · Technology
Digital teams and specialists for delivery of digital projects — developers, designers, user researchers, delivery managers and more. Buyers run mini-competitions to find the right team.
Technology Products and Associated Services 2
RM6098 · Technology
Hardware, software, and associated services including end-user devices, networking equipment, and security products.
Network Services 3
RM6116 · Technology
Wide area networks, local area networks, internet access, and associated connectivity services for public sector organisations.
Management Consultancy Framework 4
RM6309 · Professional Services
Management consulting services across strategy, operations, finance, HR, and digital transformation. Widely used by central government departments.
Public Sector Legal Services
RM6240 · Professional Services
Legal services for public sector bodies including commercial, employment, property, and litigation work.
Audit and Assurance Services 2
RM6310 · Professional Services
Internal audit, external audit, and assurance services for central government and wider public sector.
Facilities Management and Workplace Services
RM6232 · Facilities
Hard and soft FM services including maintenance, cleaning, catering, security, and workplace management.
Construction Works and Associated Services 3
RM6320 · Construction
Construction, civil engineering, and associated professional services for public sector capital projects.
Non-Clinical Temporary and Fixed Term Staff
RM6160 · Staffing
Temporary and fixed-term administrative, clerical, and professional staff for NHS and other public sector bodies.
How to apply for a CCS framework
- 1
Monitor for framework competitions
Set up alerts on PSIP for CCS framework competitions. They are advertised on Find a Tender with the contracting authority listed as Crown Commercial Service. Framework competitions typically run for 4-8 weeks.
- 2
Review the specification carefully
Download the Invitation to Tender (ITT) documents from Find a Tender. Understand the lots, evaluation criteria, pricing mechanisms, and minimum requirements before committing to an application.
- 3
Complete the Selection Questionnaire
The SQ assesses your financial standing (usually minimum turnover 2x the contract value), insurance requirements, and technical capability. Ensure your accounts and certifications are up to date before the competition opens.
- 4
Prepare your technical submission
The technical submission typically asks you to demonstrate capability, methodology, and relevant experience through case studies and written responses. Quality of technical responses is the primary differentiator.
- 5
Submit competitive pricing
Framework pricing is typically submitted as rates or a pricing schedule. Research what similar suppliers charge in the market. Your rates must be competitive enough to win call-offs but sustainable enough to deliver profitably.
- 6
Await evaluation and appointment
CCS evaluates all submissions and appoints successful suppliers to the framework. The process typically takes 2-3 months after submission. Unsuccessful suppliers are entitled to a debrief.
Tracking CCS frameworks with PSIP
PSIP tracks all 100+ active CCS frameworks with expiry dates, awarded suppliers, and call-off opportunities. You can:
- ✓Browse all active CCS frameworks filtered by category
- ✓See which frameworks are expiring soon — and when the replacement competition is likely to open
- ✓See which suppliers are currently approved on each framework
- ✓Get alerts when new CCS framework competitions are published on Find a Tender
- ✓Search for call-off opportunities under specific frameworks
🔴 PSIP CCS Framework Tracker
Track all active CCS frameworks, expiry dates, and upcoming competitions. Never miss a framework application window again.
View CCS frameworks →Frequently asked questions
What is a CCS framework?
A CCS (Crown Commercial Service) framework is a pre-approved supplier list for a specific category of goods or services. Public sector buyers can purchase from framework suppliers without running a full tender, making it faster and easier to procure. Getting on a framework significantly increases your chances of winning public sector work.
How do I get on a CCS framework?
You apply during the framework competition, which is advertised on Find a Tender. The competition typically involves a selection questionnaire assessing your financial standing, technical capability, and relevant experience, followed by an award stage where you submit pricing and methodology. Competitions open every 3-4 years for most frameworks.
Is G-Cloud a CCS framework?
Yes. G-Cloud is one of CCS's most popular frameworks, covering cloud software (SaaS), cloud platform (PaaS), and cloud infrastructure (IaaS) services. It allows public sector buyers to purchase cloud services directly from an approved catalogue without running a tender.
How long do CCS frameworks last?
Most CCS frameworks run for 4 years. Some have options to extend. Once a framework expires, buyers must use a replacement framework or run a new tender. PSIP tracks expiry dates for all active CCS frameworks.
Can SMEs get on CCS frameworks?
Yes. CCS actively encourages SME participation on frameworks. Many frameworks have specific lots or routes designed for smaller suppliers. G-Cloud in particular has strong SME representation — the majority of suppliers on G-Cloud are SMEs.
What is a Direct Award on a CCS framework?
A Direct Award is when a buyer purchases directly from a framework supplier without running a mini-competition. It is permitted where one supplier clearly meets the requirement and the price is within the framework rates. Direct Awards are faster than mini-competitions but less transparent.
What is a Further Competition (mini-competition) on a CCS framework?
A Further Competition (also called a mini-competition) is a secondary competition run among framework suppliers for a specific contract. The buyer invites all or some framework suppliers to submit a tailored bid. Mini-competitions are more competitive than Direct Awards but give buyers more control over outcome.
Track CCS framework opportunities
PSIP tracks all 100+ active CCS frameworks and alerts you when new competitions open. Never miss a framework application window. 7-day free trial, no credit card required.
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