The UK government has entered into a five-year agreement with Microsoft through Crown Commercial Services (CCS) for access to its range of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered products and services.
Effective from 1 November, the agreement will allow eligible public sector organizations to achieve cost savings on Microsoft 365, the Azure Cloud platform, business applications, and Microsoft 365 Copilot through their chosen procurement route.
Roger Gonourie, CCS’s chief commercial officer, stated: “This agreement will support eligible public sector organizations in their digital transformation and innovation efforts by leveraging the scale of the UK public sector. It demonstrates CCS’s commitment to delivering maximum commercial value and removing growth barriers in the public sector.”
Microsoft highlighted that the partnership will assist the UK government in its mission to drive economic growth, fund public services, address the cost-of-living crisis, and create job opportunities.
Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, emphasized the transformative potential of AI for the UK government, stating: “The government’s adoption of this technology will lead to significant change, starting with empowering civil servants.”
Nadella explained that implementing AI technology in the civil service will enhance productivity, ultimately improving government services and benefiting citizens.
Microsoft is working towards equipping the UK workforce with digital skills essential for success in the AI era. The company is developing certifications, skilling programs, and investing in its Enterprise Skills Initiative to support public sector employees. Events, workshops, self-paced learning, and certifications will be made available to drive the adoption of digital skills and capabilities.
Nadella believes that the development of human capital and infrastructure in the UK will propel advancements in the AI era, likening the impact of AI in the workforce to that of lean manufacturing in the manufacturing sector.
He highlighted the ability of AI to create new workflows, such as using Microsoft’s Copilot technology to enhance collaboration and efficiency among colleagues.
Clare Barclay, CEO of Microsoft UK, added: “Microsoft remains committed to supporting the UK government in building a world-class, digital-first public sector infrastructure to enhance service delivery for citizens and create opportunities nationwide.”
