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Guide Origin: Official | ArcKit Version: [VERSION]
/arckit:gcloud-search finds G-Cloud services on the UK Digital Marketplace with live search and comparison capabilities.
Inputs
| Artefact | Purpose |
|---|---|
Requirements (ARC-<id>-REQ-v1.0.md) |
What capabilities are needed |
| Architecture principles | Technology and vendor standards |
| Budget constraints | Pricing parameters |
Command
/arckit:gcloud-search Find G-Cloud services for <requirement>
Output: projects/<id>/ARC-<id>-GCLD-v1.0.md
Search Results Structure
| Section | Contents |
|---|---|
| Search Parameters | Keywords, categories, filters used |
| Service Summary | Overview of matching services |
| Service Comparison | Side-by-side comparison table |
| Pricing Analysis | Cost comparison and models |
| Compliance Summary | Certifications and security ratings |
| Recommendation | Shortlist for further evaluation |
G-Cloud Categories (Lots)
| Lot | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud Hosting | Infrastructure services | AWS, Azure, GCP |
| Cloud Software | SaaS applications | CRM, collaboration tools |
| Cloud Support | Professional services | Migration, training |
Key Filters
| Filter | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Service Category | Narrow by service type |
| Supplier Size | SME vs large enterprise |
| Security Clearance | SC, DV cleared suppliers |
| Data Location | UK, EU, global |
| Certifications | ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials+ |
One-Page Workflow
| Phase | Key Activities | ArcKit Commands |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements | Define what's needed | /arckit:requirements |
| Search | Find matching services | /arckit:gcloud-search |
| Shortlist | Compare and select candidates | Manual review |
| Clarify | Ask suppliers questions | /arckit:gcloud-clarify |
| Evaluate | Score and select | /arckit:evaluate |
Review Checklist
- Search keywords match requirement terminology.
- Multiple service categories explored.
- SME suppliers included in search.
- Security certifications filtered appropriately.
- Data location requirements considered.
- Price ranges captured for comparison.
- At least 3 services shortlisted for evaluation.
Digital Marketplace Tips
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Keyword Variation | Try synonyms and alternative terms |
| Category Browse | Browse categories, don't just search |
| Supplier Filter | Filter by size to include SMEs |
| Feature Filter | Use feature checkboxes to narrow |
| Price Sort | Sort by price to understand range |
Key Principles
- Fair Competition: Search broadly to find all suitable services.
- SME Consideration: Government aims for 33% SME spend.
- Requirement Focus: Search based on needs, not familiar vendors.
- Document Everything: Record search criteria for audit trail.
- Compare Fairly: Use consistent criteria across services.