TaaS delivers a range of cross-government telecommunications and managed security
services to allow agencies to easily connect with their customers and each other.
Agencies have the flexibility to choose individual services from a range of providers, with no minimum terms or volumes, and can access the best deals without having to go through a full market Request for Proposal (RFP) process.
TaaS services include WAN, LAN, Wi-Fi, voice (mobile, PABX and public network access), unified communications, contact centre and managed security services.
The structure of TaaS
TaaS has an internet-like architecture, with suppliers ‘peering’ or sharing their services for greater connectivity. In effect, TaaS has created an internet for government, which we’ve called the GNet.
The development of TaaS was based on the current trends of increasingly mobile workers, cloud-based applications and the use of a wide range of devices.
Perimeter-based corporate networks no longer suit modern telecommunications needs. TaaS takes a ‘walled garden’ approach, which allows security controls to be applied where they’re needed and limits access to authorised users only.
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How agencies use TaaS
As lead agency, the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) negotiates services and contracts with suppliers on the TaaS panel.
An agency chooses one or more suppliers to provide the services it needs, without having to carry out a market RFP process.
The agency signs a confidentiality agreement to access the TaaS portal, then a memorandum of understanding with DIA and a subscription form with its chosen service providers. This creates an agreement with the suppliers to deliver services to the agency.
Services work together seamlessly, regardless of the supplier or agency.
Agencies have no minimum volumes or terms - they can choose to leave a supplier after just a month. DIA can add or remove suppliers from the panel at any stage.
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Why TaaS is needed
TaaS has been developed to make it easier for government agencies to easily and securely connect with each other and their customers.
It realises a number of the opportunities signalled in the Government ICT Strategy.
Agencies are increasingly:
Looking to move away from designing, building and operating their own technology solutions and outsourcing their infrastructure needing the flexibility to merge, separate or co-locate without extra cost or complexity working with other agencies and looking for ways to do this securely seeking telecommunications services that are economically priced and meet their evolving needs. TaaS addresses all these requirements, enabling agencies to work collaboratively and to deliver services that are more focused on their customers.
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Who can use TaaS?
Almost all government agencies are able to opt in to TaaS, including central and local government, schools, district health boards and most SOEs. See Frequently Asked Questions for a full list.
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Is TaaS compulsory?
Agencies are not currently required to use TaaS, but are strongly encouraged to do so.
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Which agencies have joined TaaS?
Here are the agencies that have opted into TaaS by completing a subscription agreement.
See all agencies
