Benefits
The UK public sector values collaborative and diverse partnerships, particularly in digital transformation projects where innovation, agility, and user-centred design are essential.
Partnering with SMEs not only brings fresh perspectives and niche expertise but also demonstrates a commitment to supporting the wider UK economy and fostering growth.
Government frameworks often encourage or mandate engagement with SMEs, which can make your bid more competitive and aligned with public sector goals. They can also contribute to your Social Value offering.
What makes a good SME Partner?
A successful partnership with an SME in the UK public sector relies on choosing SMEs that bring specific, strategic qualities to the table.
Skills & Expertise
SME’s can offer access to skilled professionals, adding value and momentum to your projects, plugging skills gaps and creating knowledge transfer. This all creates improved outcomes and buyer satisfaction.
Adaptable Working Methods
The ability to pivot quickly and adjust to evolving project needs is a strength of many SMEs. Seek partners that offer flexibility and can integrate well into agile methodologies or iterative design processes.
Innovation Mindset
SMEs that thrive on innovative approaches can add value by introducing new technologies and methodologies. This helps differentiate your bid and meet the UK government’s drive for digital innovation.
Relevant Experience
An SME’s familiarity with the nuances of public sector projects can be invaluable. Look for SMEs with prior experience in government contracts, as they will be more accustomed to the expectations, documentation, and approval processes involved.
Understanding Compliance
Security, GDPR, and data privacy compliance are critical in government contracts. SMEs that demonstrate strong compliance measures and familiarity with government policies are valuable partners.
What Hanover offer
Hanover combine the best people with AI & automation giving us the insight and agility to solve our partners resource, technology, and commercial problems.
We support the UK Government and wider Public Sector as an SME Ecosystem Partner in collaboration with major Systems Integrators (SI) to deliver Digital, Data, and Technology (DDaT) resources and services across the UK.
