National Pupil Database Access - Discovery

Tender description

Why the Work is Being Done In the form of the National Pupil Database (NPD) the Department for Education (DfE) has some one of the best data sources in government. However, how we provide access to the data needs to be modernised to realise it's potential benefit - with an emphasis on 'distributing access, not data'. The discovery is required to refresh our understanding of who the key users are and their needs, with a view to: a) Streamlining the application process for NPD data; and b) Provide safe and secure access to this data for those that require it Problem to Be Solved The key problem we are looking solve can be summarised as: 'How can the DfE maximise the benefit of our data, initially NPD, by providing fast, safe and secure access to those who use it to add/create value – whilst reducing cost and maximising information security'. The emphasis is on understanding the problems and considering high level approaches rather than proposing specific technical solutions. Who Are the Users External: As an external researchers/analyst I need to have access to the National Pupil Database (NPD) So that I can conduct essential research (that may help to shape future DfE policy) Internal: As the NPD data owner I need to provide secure and controlled access to the NPD So that internal & external researcher/analysts can produce analysis/finding that add value to the DfE, whilst minimising information risk. Early Market Engagement Work Already Done We have been liaising with the Office of National Statistics (ONS) and the Administrative Data Research Network (ADRN) to explore the possibility providing access to the NPD via ONS/ADRN channels. We have identified several potential options which, as part of this discovery, we would like to evaluate to determine if they would: a) Meet user needs b) Reduce the current demand for bespoke NPD extracts c) Increase demand for NPD data Existing Team The supplier will be working with the DfE NPD Access Development lead Current Phase Not started Work Location Sheffield & Darlington - with likely travel to various locations throughout the UK. Working Arrangments a) We are looking for flexibility in the approach to completing this discovery b) We will be working to Agile principles - i.e. regular stand ups, Show & Tells, Retrospectives c) Necessary expenses will be paid in line with DfE standard policies Security Clearance The supplier may need to access a sample of real NPD data for the discovery. As such, any successful supplier would be expected to meet the security terms associated with applying for an NPD Extract, outlined here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-pupil-database-apply-for-a-data-extract Additional T&Cs Skills & Experience Experience of taking a user centric approach from inception throughout the project lifecycle Experience of arranging and managing participants to ensure their particpation in research sessions Experience of passing Government Digital Service service assessments Nice to Haves No. of Suppliers to Evaluate 5 Proposal Criteria Approach & methodology How the approach or solution meets user needs Value for Money Cultural Fit Criteria Work as a team with our organisation and other suppliers Be transparent and collaborative Share knowledge and experience with other team members Challenge the status quo Be comfortable standing up for their discipline Payment Approach Fixed price Assessment Method Written proposal Evaluation Weighting Technical competence 60% Cultural fit 20% Price 20% Questions from Suppliers Budget range