Understanding the Network Services 4 Lots: Which One Is Right for Your Business?

As the Government Commercial Agency (GCA) prepares to launch the Network Services 4 (RM6377) framework, many suppliers are beginning to ask the same question:

Which lot should we apply for?

With 11 lots covering everything from connectivity and unified communications to IoT, audio visual solutions and critical communications, understanding where your services fit is one of the most important steps in preparing a successful application.

In this guide, we'll explain each proposed Network Services 4 lot in simple terms and help you identify where your business may be best placed to compete.

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What is Network Services 4?

Network Services 4 (RM6377) is the successor to the current Network Services 3 framework. It has been designed to reflect changes in technology, buyer requirements and the Procurement Act 2023, while expanding into several new service areas.

The framework is expected to be worth up to £8 billion and will provide public sector organisations with access to a broad range of networking, communications and digital infrastructure suppliers.

Unlike previous iterations, Network Services 4 introduces new specialist lots while refining existing categories to better reflect today's market.

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Why Choosing the Right Lot Matters

One of the biggest mistakes suppliers make is trying to bid for every lot they might be capable of delivering.

Buyers are looking for suppliers with genuine expertise, proven experience and relevant case studies within each service area. Applying for lots that don't closely align with your business can weaken your overall submission and reduce your chances of success.

Instead, focus on the lots where you can clearly demonstrate:

• Relevant contract experience
• Strong technical capability
• Sector knowledge
• Customer references
• Evidence of successful delivery

Remember that quality will always outweigh quantity.

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The Network Services 4 Lots Explained

Lot 1 – Internet Connectivity Services (WAN)

This lot covers wide area networking solutions, including managed and unmanaged connectivity between sites, cloud environments and the internet.

Typical suppliers include:

• Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
• MPLS providers
• SD-WAN specialists
• Managed connectivity providers

Ideal for organisations delivering large-scale network infrastructure across multiple locations.

Lot 2 – Local Connectivity Services (LAN)

Lot 2 focuses on local area networking within buildings, campuses and local environments.

Services include:

• LAN design
• Switching
• Wireless networking
• Internal connectivity
• Network installation and maintenance

This lot is aimed at businesses specialising in on-site networking infrastructure.

Lot 3 – Voice & Unified Communications (UC)

Modern organisations increasingly rely on cloud-based communication platforms.

This lot includes:

• VoIP telephony
• Microsoft Teams Calling
• Unified Communications platforms
• Video conferencing
• Collaboration software

If your business provides cloud communications or hosted telephony solutions, this is likely to be your primary lot.

Lot 4 – Contact Centre Services

This lot covers customer contact technologies that enable organisations to manage inbound and outbound communications.

Typical services include:

• Cloud contact centres
• Call routing
• Omnichannel communications
• Workforce management
• Customer experience platforms

Suppliers specialising in customer engagement technology will typically fit here.

Lot 5 – IoT & Connected Places (Including Security & CCTV)

One of the broadest lots within the framework, this category covers smart technology and connected infrastructure.

Examples include:

• Smart buildings
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• CCTV
• Smart city technology
• Environmental monitoring
• Connected public infrastructure

Businesses operating within smart technology or intelligent infrastructure should pay particular attention to this lot.

Lot 6 – Critical Domain Services

This specialist lot supports organisations responsible for managing nationally critical public sector domains.

Services may include:

• Domain management
• DNS infrastructure
• Secure hosting
• National infrastructure support
• Domain governance

This is a highly specialised area requiring significant technical expertise.

Lot 7 – Paging & Alerting

Although smaller than some other lots, paging and alerting remains critical across healthcare, emergency services and other essential public services.

Services include:

• Paging systems
• Emergency alerts
• Critical messaging platforms
• Notification systems

Suppliers operating within emergency communications may find strong opportunities here.

Lot 8 – Audio Visual Services

This is a brand-new addition to Network Services 4.

It covers:

• Meeting room technology
• Video conferencing hardware
• Digital displays
• AV integration
• Collaboration spaces

The inclusion of this lot reflects growing demand for hybrid working and digital collaboration across the public sector.

Lot 9a – Critical Communications Devices

This lot focuses on the physical equipment used within critical communications environments.

Examples include:

• Radios
• Handheld devices
• Specialist communication hardware
• Associated accessories

Lot 9b – Critical Communications Services

Rather than supplying equipment, this lot covers the services needed to design, implement and maintain critical communications systems.

This may include:

• Network design
• Installation
• Maintenance
• Managed services
• Operational support

Lot 9c – Critical Communications Software

The final lot focuses on software solutions supporting critical communications technology.

This includes:

• Control room software
• Operational platforms
• Monitoring systems
• Specialist communications applications

Together, Lots 9a–9c have been introduced to support the UK's transition towards the Emergency Services Network (ESN).

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How Do You Decide Which Lots to Apply For?

Before making a decision, ask yourself:

• Which services generate most of our revenue?
• Where do we have the strongest evidence?
• Which contracts best demonstrate our experience?
• Do we have the certifications required?
• Can we confidently answer technical questions for this lot?

Remember, buyers will expect evidence that directly aligns with the services within each lot. If you cannot demonstrate relevant experience, it may be better to focus your efforts elsewhere.

Preparation is key to any framework application, so ensuring your business is 'Framework Ready' is essential prior to the tender release. For more information on this and how BWS can help you, read this blog.

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How Bid Writing Service Can Help

Choosing the right lot is only the first step. A successful Network Services 4 application requires strong technical responses, compelling evidence and a clear understanding of buyer expectations.

At BWS, we've helped suppliers secure places on major public sector frameworks across technology, telecommunications and digital infrastructure. From identifying the most suitable lots to developing winning responses and ensuring compliance, we support businesses throughout the entire application process.

If you're planning to bid for Network Services 4, now is the time to start preparing.

Contact our team today on info@bidwritingservice.com to discuss your framework strategy and discover how we can help you maximise your chances of success.