Government outlines £904m printing framework

The government has outlined a wide-ranging framework for managed print services for public sector bodies worth up to £904m.

The framework will list suppliers that public sector organisations can use if multifunctional printing devices, managed printing services and print audit services are needed.

The majority of the framework is set to last four years, but the printing audit that services will be set to will last two years.

The services will be available to central government departments, NHS bodies, educational establishments, the emergency services, the third sector and local authorities.

The online tender states that the framework is both targeted at small customers who have simple printing requirements, and large ones who may need independent advice, networked or managed print solutions and outsourcing capabilities.

The tender is divided into four lots that outline the following services required from up to 24 suppliers:

• Mono and colour-capable multifunctional devices, all with standard network interfaces;

• Maintenance and support, including on-site training;

• Software enabling product management; eg, remote diagnostics;

• Auditing software for print management and accounting purposes; and

• Managed services for optimising print devices, supplies, maintenance and information and billing.

Interested parties have until 9 January 2012 at 15:00 to submit a tender to participate.