DSIT awards £214 million in Matrix contracts to strengthen digital capabilities

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has finalised three major contracts worth a combined £214 million under the Matrix programme, aiming to enhance its digital, data, and technology (DDaT) capabilities.

The deals, awarded through the Crown Commercial Service’s Digital and Legacy Application Services framework, are set to run for three years, with an optional one-year extension. The winning suppliers - Kainos, Valcon, and PA Consulting - will play a critical role in bolstering DSIT’s operational effectiveness.

A government spokesperson highlighted that the contracts will provide DSIT with “access to the best digital expertise from industry,” allowing the department to “deliver more efficiently and effectively for citizens.”

The roles of each supplier:

• Kainos has secured a £77.2 million contract to focus on “agile software delivery.” The company’s expertise in digital transformation is expected to support DSIT’s push for modern, responsive services.
• Valcon has been awarded a £76.3 million contract, also centred on agile software development, ensuring DSIT can iterate and improve its digital systems efficiently.
• PA Consulting will oversee “service management, operations, and business analysis” under a £60.9 million deal, ensuring smooth-running digital services and optimised workflows.

A strategic move for DSIT

This procurement strategy aligns with DSIT’s broader goal of securing high-quality external digital expertise while maintaining flexibility. The department stated that Matrix contracts will allow them to “draw on high-quality expertise at pace and scale,” ensuring they can adapt swiftly to evolving needs.

DSIT continues to refine its digital operations. These latest contracts mark a significant step in ensuring it has the right technological foundations to support its mission.