Data network support services

Tender description

The OSS system is a federation of a number of applications, which are used to interface to the different elements of the operational rail telecommunications systems such as network access and network transmission. Network Monitoring is provided through the Netcool application and Asset Management through the Cramer application. The OSS currently is responsible for the management of the FTN transmission network and the SCADA network. There are plans to add copper cable, FTNx, the CDPs, GSM-R and SISS to OSS in part (e.g. GSM-R for network monitoring only, FTNx for asset management only) during 2017. There are also plans to extend the application set of the OSS system. Network Rail is seeking to select a Managed Services Provider to provide the on-going application third line and application configuration support for the OSS system. The OSS system is a federation of a number of applications, which are used to interface to the different elements of the operational rail telecommunications systems such as network access and network transmission. Network Monitoring is provided through the Netcool application and Asset Management through the Cramer application. The OSS currently is responsible for the management of the FTN transmission network and the SCADA network. There are plans to add copper cable, FTNx, the CDPs, GSM-R and SISS to OSS in part (e.g. GSM-R for network monitoring only, FTNx for asset management only) during 2017. There are also plans to extend the application set of the OSS system. Network Rail is seeking to select a Managed Services Provider to provide the on-going application third line and application configuration support for the OSS system. The Managed Service Provider's resources will be complementing Network Rail's own first and second line support. Whilst the rail operation is 24/7, some 95 % of ‘Trouble Tickets’ are handled during business hours, with second line support outside of business hours being provided by the use of ‘on call’ staff, thus providing 24/7 cover. In the efficient and effective delivery of the third line support, the Managed Service Provider is expected to mirror this arrangement using a small core team, supported by a wider network of subject matter experts. Currently the on-going development of the OSS applications, where development is taken to mean the configuration of the applications, e.g. to support new device types, is based around a regular monthly release cycle. The selected Managed Services Provider shall be capable of working alongside Network Rail and shall be proactive in promoting and delivering modern test and release techniques to reduce cycle time and/or cost. Network Rail's current service contract covering the supply of application and support licences is due to expire in mid-2019. At that point Network Rail may wish to incorporate future licensing provision into this contract as a contract variation (subject to best value being demonstrated).