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The NSW government has established new procurement guidelines to make it easier for agencies to work with technology companies and move towards off-the-shelf products.
Instead of being forced down rigid tender pathways which have to specify a solution, the updated procurement rules allow agencies to identify, test and buy products to deliver smarter and faster services.
The state government claimed the Test & Buy Innovation guidelines support agencies to access suitable digital solutions to address community need.
Small, medium and local enterprises will also potentially benefit from this approach, as these businesses will have the chance to showcase their technologies instead of being forced to conform to procurement practices.
The updated guidance delivers on the state government’s NSW Digital Strategy initiative to give public sector buyers the support they need to identify problems and invite the industry to propose solutions.
As part of this process, state government buyers have the option to work closely with one or more suppliers to test a solution through a multi-stage process before implementing the best outcome at scale.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said reforming how NSW government procures technologies is an important part of the NSW Digital Strategy and will help make services more responsive, forward-thinking and effective for the people of NSW.
“This guidance opens the door to better value for money and delivering the best solution powered by the latest technologies,” he said.
“This is a great example of how we are driving innovation by working with technology providers to identify real-world solutions, as well as supporting the delivery of stronger frontline public services for the people of NSW.
“It provides for greater access to innovative solutions for everyday problems by opening new opportunities for small, medium and local enterprises to contribute ideas straight from technology think tanks.”
During the state government’s NSW Digital Showcase 2024 event on 27 November, Dib said the government’s digital plans require tailored solutions and not a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
The NSW Digital Strategy is built around five interconnected missions of accessibility, service delivery, safety and resilience, resilience and skills, which guide the government’s work to “deliver high-quality, accessible services for every citizen and industry in NSW,” he added.