How to Start Your SCS Journey

Starting your SCS journey doesn’t require perfection — just a commitment to begin.

Whether you're responding to a customer prompt, driving internal improvement, or aligning with national sector priorities, the SCS Framework is built to meet you where you are and support your next step. It offers a structured, flexible way to assess capabilities, drive progress, and gain recognition.

From Interest to Action

Organisations typically enter the SCS Framework in one of three ways:

• Customer Prompt – A client, prime, or trade body recommends participation.

• Internal Strategy – You're building capability for investment, growth, or resilience.

• Sector Alignment – You want to meet industry expectations or gain maturity certification.

Whatever the driver, SCS provides a clear, repeatable structure to move from assessment to improvement — and to demonstrate that progress along the way.

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Your First Three Steps

Step 1 – Understand the Framework Start by exploring this Knowledge Base. Learn about the three pillars (ESG, Digital, Competitiveness) and how the maturity model (Bronze, Silver, Gold) works.

Step 2 – Choose Your Starting Point You have two valid options:

• Option A: Baseline Maturity Assessment (BMA) A broad, quick self-check across your organisation that highlights strengths and gaps. Ideal for gaining orientation or preparing for structured improvement.

• Option B: Go Direct to a Pillar If you already know your priority — such as ESG or Digital readiness — you can jump straight into the relevant pillar’s assessment tools and guidance.

Both are supported. What matters is choosing the entry point that fits your business context.

Step 3 – Begin Your Assessment Journey Once you've chosen your starting point, review the assessment structure, check what evidence might be needed, and begin using the platform to score your current capabilities.

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You're Not Alone

From day one, the framework is designed to support you with:

• Templates and Tools – Available throughout the pillar sections

• Practitioner Support – Where applicable through your SCS journey

• ADS Guidance – For coordination, escalation, and programme queries

You don’t need every answer in advance — the framework is designed to grow with you.

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Take the First Step

The most important move is the first one.

• Explore the Knowledge Base

• Try the Baseline Maturity Assessment

• Dive into a priority pillar

Wherever you begin, you’ll find a structured, supported, and recognised pathway forward.