The NSW Government is making it easier for agencies to work with tech companies to identify, test and buy cutting-edge solutions to deliver smarter, faster services for NSW residents.
The new procurement guidelines mean departments can avoid being forced down rigid tender pathways which have to specify a solution and can lead to purchases of 'off-the-shelf' technology.
The Test & Buy Innovation guidelines instead put innovation at the heart of procurement, supporting agencies to access the most suitable digital solutions to address community needs.
Small, medium and local enterprises are also set to benefit from this approach, as market disruptors will now have the chance to showcase their technologies, instead of being forced to conform to inflexible procurement practices.
The new guidance delivers on the NSW Digital Strategy and has been developed by Digital NSW to give government buyers the support they need to clearly identify the 'problem' and then invite the market to propose the solution.
As part of this process, government buyers then have the option to work closely with an identified supplier or multiple suppliers to test a solution through a multi-stage process before implementing the best outcome at scale.
The new process is already empowering agencies, with pilots resulting in the purchase of new technologies - like harnessing AI to accelerate the pre-lodgement process in housing development applications, improving efficiency for both applicants and councils.
The new guidance follows research and engagement with more than 100 emerging technology suppliers and supports the Minns Labor Government's commitment to uplift procurement and improve service delivery through smarter and more innovative technologies, unlock opportunities for smaller, emerging businesses, and remove barriers to local content and local jobs.
To learn more, please visit: www.digital.nsw.gov.au/delivery/test-and-buy-innovation
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:
"Reforming how NSW Government procures innovative technologies is an important part of the NSW Digital Strategy and will help make services more responsive, forward-thinking and effective for the people of NSW."
"This guidance opens the door to better value for money and delivering the best solution powered by the latest technologies."
"This is a great example of how we are driving innovation by working with technology providers to identify real-world solutions, as well as supporting the delivery of stronger frontline public services for the people of NSW."
"It provides for greater access to innovative solutions for everyday problems by opening new opportunities for small, medium and local enterprises to contribute ideas straight from technology think tanks."
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said:
"Through the Test & Buy Innovation approach, we're making it easier for government agencies to access new technologies which can drive efficiencies, improve service delivery, and strengthen the digital capability of the public sector."
"This fresh approach to procurement helps to tackle complex challenges with confidence and ensures the solutions are cutting-edge and tailored to the needs of NSW communities."
