Communication and Connectivity Products and Services framework

Framework Introduction

CPC is pleased to introduce the re-tender of its successful Communications Solutions Framework, which is due to expire on 15 December 2026.

Designed with the needs of schools, academies, multi-academy trusts, colleges, universities and wider public sector organisations in mind, this framework provides a compliant, efficient and cost-effective route to market for a comprehensive range of communication and connectivity solutions.

As digital technologies continue to play an increasingly important role in teaching, learning, administration, safeguarding and organisational efficiency, access to reliable communication infrastructure has never been more important. This framework has been developed to support members in procuring both current and future technologies from trusted suppliers, helping institutions deliver high-quality services whilst achieving value for money.

Throughout the framework term, members will have access to a broad range of communication and connectivity products, services, installation, support and consultancy solutions. Both manufacturers and resellers will be appointed, encouraging innovation, collaboration and the delivery of additional benefits to members.

The framework will be available to all current and future CPC members, as well as eligible wider public sector organisations through Crescent Services, as detailed within the Contract Notice.

Scope of the Framework

The framework is intended to support a wide variety of communication and connectivity requirements, including:

• Unified communications and telephony systems

• Mobile voice, messaging and data services

• Mobile devices and associated hardware

• Broadband and network connectivity services

• Installation, maintenance and support services

• Security, compliance and governance solutions

• Billing, reporting and cost-management services

• Consultancy and strategic advice

• Integrated communication and connectivity solutions

Whether members are replacing legacy telephony systems, implementing cloud-based communications, improving mobile connectivity, upgrading broadband infrastructure, or seeking an integrated technology solution across multiple sites, the framework provides access to experienced suppliers capable of delivering projects of all sizes.

Benefits for Schools and Trusts

By using this framework, members can benefit from:

• A fully compliant route to market under the Procurement Act 2023

• Reduced procurement time, cost and administrative burden

• Access to pre-qualified suppliers with proven sector experience

• Competitive pricing achieved through aggregated purchasing power

• Support for digital transformation and future technology requirements

• Opportunities for innovation, collaboration and social value delivery

• Flexible solutions suitable for individual schools, MATs and larger organisations

The collective purchasing power of CPC members helps drive greater efficiencies and value than many organisations could achieve independently, enabling schools and trusts to maximise budgets whilst securing high-quality communication and connectivity solutions.

Framework Structure

The framework will be divided into four lots:

Lot 1 - Unified Communications and Telephony

Provision and installation of telephony and unified communications solutions, hardware, support and related services.

Lot 2 - Mobile Communications

Mobile voice, messaging and data services, devices, hardware, management tools and support services.

Lot 3 - Broadband Network Services

Broadband connectivity solutions, associated infrastructure, consultancy and support services.

Lot 4 - Integrated Communications and Connectivity Solutions

End-to-end communication and connectivity solutions combining multiple service areas into a single integrated offering.

This framework aims to help members procure with confidence, access market-leading technologies and deliver reliable communication and connectivity services that support excellent educational and operational outcomes.

Tender Timetable

The outlined timetable for the procurement process which is for guidance only can be found below. Dates may be subject to change but will remain within the Procurement Act 2023 requirements:

Evaluation Criteria

Tenderers who meet the standards of the PSQ contained within Appendix 5 and therefore have the capacity to serve CPC Members, will then be scored against the evaluation criteria. It is this criterion that informs the decision for the award of the Framework. The following award criteria will be used:

If you'd like to discuss this framework in further detail contact please Anthony Warner at [email protected].