Defra awards Atos GBP £150m contract for IT modernisation

DEFRA has engaged Atos in a GBP £150m contract to enhance IT services for its 34,000 employees through AI and sustainability initiatives.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has chosen Atos to revolutionise its service desk and end-user services. The five-year contract, valued at GBP £150m, aims to centralise and modernise services for DEFRA's extensive user base across the UK.

Atos has been tasked with increasing the efficiency and quality of DEFRA's service desk operations by deploying technology innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), analytics, and automation. The project intends to create a more responsive, streamlined service environment for DEFRA's staff.

Environmental sustainability is a core component of the partnership. Emphasising sustainable practices, Atos plans to implement eco-friendly measures to position DEFRA as the UK government's most sustainable digital workplace.

Key strategies include refurbishing and redistributing existing hardware, prioritising device repairs over replacements, minimising packaging, and donating obsolete technology to charities and third-sector organisations.

Michael Herron, Head of UK and Ireland at Atos Group, commented, "We are delighted to be working with DEFRA on their end-user services, enabling their team to concentrate on the important work they deliver. We have a track record of success in this area, providing best-in-class services supported by cutting-edge technology platforms that focus on people, planet, and productivity."

Atos is known for providing comprehensive employee experience solutions, including digital collaboration, productivity tools, and intelligent customer care services. The company's suite for sustainable digital workplaces comprises more than 20 services and solutions under its "Tech for Good" initiative, covering social value, accessibility, data analytics, and user interface criteria.

Gartner has recognised the company's capabilities in outsourced digital workplace services, having named Atos a Leader in its 2024 Magic Quadrant for the eighth consecutive year.