Digital Configurator

Description

Introduction: Digital Configurator The Digital Configurator proposes a new DfE digital tool that will automate and standardise early-stage feasibility design for school buildings. It will translate the tools developed within the Department’s design standards into an intelligent rule-based digital environment, enabling the automatic generation of block models, site layouts, compliance checks, 3D visualisations and exportable design data. The tool will be a core enabler of consistent, compliant and efficient feasibility development across the school estate. The configurator shall be developed to enable ‘smart’ analysis of common changes and other compliance challenges. The successful supplier will undertake a programme to design, build, test and support the release of the Digital Configurator. The Digital Configurator supplier will benefit from a report, with pattern book compliant designs, which can be used, alongside the Department’s New Model Designs to train and test the configurators’ outputs. Design - Project Development The supplier will develop the rule‑based logic, data structures, interoperability requirements and user interface concepts for the configurator. They will refine and validate functional and technical requirements emerging from the CF25 review work, and define the architecture, logic models and prototype interfaces needed for development. Build - Development and Integration The supplier will oversee or support the full development of the configurator, ensuring correct implementation of CF25 handbook and design standards. This includes logic encoding, 3D model generation, site layout tools, compliance engines, data pipelines, export formats, user interface components and secure architecture. Test - Assurance and Quality Control The supplier will lead or support structured testing of the configurator, including functional testing, compliance and rule‑traceability checks, performance testing, interoperability validation and usability reviews. All defects and issues will be logged, triaged and verified in line with DfE assurance processes. Support - Release, Handover and Post‑Release The supplier will support the Beta release, user training, documentation development and readiness assessment. Following go‑live, the supplier will provide early post‑release support to resolve defects, monitor performance and advise on future enhancements and sustainability. Background: The Construction Framework 2025 (CF25), and site configuration In January 2026, the Department for Education (DfE) awarded its £15.4 billion Construction Framework 2025 (CF25), a closed framework established for an initial term of six years. This framework will use the CF25 handbook and our Design standards to build new schools and revitalise the Education Estate. Currently, the Department manually designs new school site plans, using the tools developed within CF25 handbook and Design standards. This process often involves a number of technically qualified people working jointly to develop initial designs. While this process is effective and results in great schools, we plan to improve its efficiency via a Digital Configurator; allowing us to accelerator our initial designs, saving DfE resource and redirecting our expertise to other activities. Relevant links: Material: Construction framework handbook 2025 Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/school-buildings-construction-framework-2025/construction-framework-handbook-2025 Material: Design standards: employer's requirements Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/design-standards-employers-requirements