G-Cloud vs DOS: Which Framework Do You Need?
Both frameworks operate through the Digital Marketplace, but they serve different purposes. This guide helps you decide which one suits your business, or whether you need both.
G-Cloud
For cloud products and services with fixed pricing. Best for SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS providers.
DOS
For bespoke digital services, specialists, and research. Best for agencies and consultancies.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Factor | G-Cloud | DOS |
|---|---|---|
| What It Covers | Cloud hosting, software, support | Digital outcomes, specialists, user research |
| Pricing Model | Fixed catalogue pricing | Priced per requirement/bid |
| How Buyers Procure | Search, compare, and select directly | Post requirements, suppliers respond |
| Best For | Product companies (SaaS, IaaS, PaaS) | Service firms, agencies, consultancies |
| Total Framework Spend | £8bn+ since inception | £3bn+ annual spend |
| Application Complexity | Moderate (service listings + pricing) | Higher (capability evidence + case studies) |
| Call-Off Process | Direct award or further competition | Mini-competition per requirement |
| Typical Contract Value | £10K to £5M per call-off | £50K to £10M per requirement |
| Number of Buyers | 40,000+ public sector organisations | Major central government departments |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 12-18 months | Every 12-18 months |
Service Categories by Framework
G-Cloud Lots
DOS Lots
Which Framework Suits Your Business?
Choose G-Cloud If You:
- Sell cloud-based software (SaaS)
- Offer hosting or infrastructure services
- Have fixed, repeatable service pricing
- Want buyers to find you directly
- Prefer catalogue-style procurement
Choose DOS If You:
- Provide bespoke digital services
- Supply specialist contractors
- Build custom software or platforms
- Offer user research or design
- Price work per project, not per product
Apply for Both If You:
- Offer SaaS products AND bespoke services
- Want maximum Digital Marketplace coverage
- Can supply both products and people
- Target diverse government buyers
- Want continuous pipeline opportunities
Our Digital Marketplace Track Record
Frequently Asked Questions
Bid experience across
Organisations our clients have bid into and won with, and the frameworks we work on every week
- RM6320 CWAS3
- RM6390
- RM6397
- RM6377
- NHS SBS
- G-Cloud
- DOS
- ESPO
- SCAPE
- ProCure24
Logos identify organisations our clients have bid into or frameworks Glaxtons supports. No endorsement is implied.
Not Sure Which Framework You Need?
We will review your services and recommend the right Digital Marketplace strategy. Free, no-obligation consultation.
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G-Cloud vs DOS
Framework comparison guide