The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has introduced its plan for a new Digital Sourcing Lifecycle.
In a statement, the DTA said digital sourcing described the full end-to-end process of procuring a digital product or service.
“It begins at the moment a need is identified and continues all the way through to negotiating the final contract and managing the delivery,” the Agency said.
“The Digital Sourcing Lifecycle supports a strategic approach to digital sourcing. This will help buyers access modern, innovative solutions and navigate through complex tasks to achieve better digital investments,” it said.
“It encourages a consistent approach to digital sourcing activities across the whole of Government by providing guidance and support for all three stages of digital sourcing.”
The stages could be described as:
Plan: Identify your needs and the available solutions.
Source: Research your options to approach the market to find the right fit, then sign the contract and notify sellers of the outcome.
Manage: Seller performance management and reviewing end-of-life considerations.
The DTA said user research into Government sourcing showed a strong need for a consistent pathway or map for digital sourcing that could be used by people with different levels of experience.
“Internal procurement guides can be helpful, but they often show only part of the journey,” it said.
“They are usually designed for general procurement and often exclude specific digital considerations.
“The DTA puts user needs at the centre of our platform, tool and content development. Our user research has helped us to change the way policy is developed and improve the digital sourcing experience.”
Further information on the Digital Sourcing Lifecycle can be accessed at this PS News link.
