Digital Outcomes and Specialists

A government framework enabling public sector organisations to procure digital services, specialists, and user research through pre-approved suppliers via the Digital Marketplace.

What it covers

Digital Outcomes and Specialists (DOS) is a multi-billion pound framework operated by the Crown Commercial Service that enables public sector buyers to procure three distinct categories of digital services:

• Digital outcomes: End-to-end delivery of digital projects, from discovery phases through to live services
• Digital specialists: Individual contractors or small teams for specific technical roles (developers, user researchers, delivery managers, etc.)
• User research studios: Dedicated facilities and support for conducting user research activities

How it works

Buyers access pre-approved suppliers through the Digital Marketplace portal, where they can either:

• Browse and directly award lower-value contracts (typically under £100,000)
• Run mini-competitions for higher-value requirements
• Issue briefs for suppliers to respond to with proposals

The framework operates on iterations (DOS 1, DOS 2, etc.), with periodic re-procurement to refresh the supplier base and improve terms. Each iteration typically runs for four years with possible extensions.

Key benefits

The framework significantly reduces procurement timescales compared to full OJEU procedures, often enabling awards within weeks rather than months. It provides access to a diverse supplier ecosystem, including many SMEs and digital specialists who might struggle with traditional procurement routes.

Suppliers undergo assessment during framework competitions to demonstrate their capability, giving buyers confidence in their technical competence. The framework also includes standardised terms and competitive day rates, simplifying commercial negotiations.