What is a PSN?
The PSN is a secure private network for the public sector. Most public sector organisations currently have their own IT networks. PSN brings these together so that they look and feel like one single network. By introducing uniform standards, it will reduce duplication of effort and drive down the costs of network services.
What is the Scottish Public Services Network (SPSN) Project?
A cross sectoral SPSN working has been set up, which is chaired by Anne Moises, Scottish Government CIO, and reports to the Public Sector ICT National Board.
This project will determine the technical, design, delivery and procurement requirements for a Public Services Network in Scotland. It is one work stream within the development of the Public Sector ICT National Strategy for Scotland.
The underlying principle of a public sector network is that by aggregating demand, the cost of procurement and service will be reduced by utilising the block buying power of multiple departments, agencies, authorities and public bodies.
There are two components to aggregating demand into one public sector network contract for Scotland’s public services. The first is the potential to aggregate the public service contracts for access to the infrastructure. The second component is the opportunity to aggregate public service contracts for common services which run across the infrastructure such as e-mail and video conferencing. This will require the agreement of a common set of standards and security that can wrap around these services and enable them to be shared across all public sector partners.
Useful Links
Further information on UK PSN is available on the Cabinet Office website.
Contact Details:
Denis McFadden – Senior Portfolio Manager – Scottish Procurement - Email denis.mcfadden@scotland.gsi.gov.uk – 0131-244-1925