HMRC has signed a contract with Skyscape Cloud Services for centralised data storage in the G-Cloud. It is claimed that moving to cloud storage will provide cheaper, more secure and greener data storage for HMRC and will also enable the department to move forward with its deployment of the Government End User Device Strategy, designed to increase the efficiency of the public sector and improve front-line services.
The contract was awarded via the UK Government G-Cloud framework, which is designed to enable the rapid sourcing and deployment of secure, low-cost utility services to the UK public sector. This is the first major service contract to be awarded via the G-Cloud by an organisation as large as HMRC.
For HMRC the change will mean moving data currently stored in local offices to cloud storage between Autumn 2012 and early Spring 2013. This will be the first deployment of G-Cloud services over the Public Service Network, established to improve Government communication links and cut costs.
HMRC’s Chief Information Officer, Phil Pavitt, said:
‘This change will save over £1 million a year in running costs and will increase reliability and security of HMRC’s internal IT services. The Skyscape contract is a major step for HMRC in moving away from traditional ways of working with large service providers. And it’s a great example of how we’re exploring smarter, more innovative solutions that make life simpler for us and help us provide a better deal for our customers.’
