CySAFA(D) Technical Design Review

Tender description

Why the Work is Being Done CySAFA(Deployed) will be the primary Defensive Cyber platform for deployed operations, allowing Cyber Protection Teams (CPTs) to monitor and protect standalone networks. CySAFA(D) has been delivered in small numbers to CPTs and is currently being trialled to understand how it can support their expected missions. CySAFA(D) is based on the CySAFA(Fixed) architectural pattern which utilises Big Data Storage and Analytics. Significant investment is planned from Mar 19 to increase the fleet. Prior to this, and in support of an investment appraisal, a technical review is required to ensure the design is the best solution for expected operational use cases. Problem to Be Solved A technical design review of CySAFA(D) is required to prove the value and effectiveness of the current design, considering the CPT requirements and use cases. This study should, as a minimum include; - Engagement with CPTs, single service capability leads, Jt User and ISS project staff to understand the future requirements of CySAFA(D); - Reviewing the design pattern and providing recommendations on the appropriateness of the current design; - Conducting a cost benefit analysis of the current design, including understanding the utilisation of development in the fixed version against delivering a separate Deployed work stream. Who Are the Users The users are single service CPTs – Army (Bath), RAF (Digby), RN (Portsmouth). They require engagement to help the project team understand their future requirements and use cases to ensure the most appropriate technology is delivered to them. Early Market Engagement N/A Work Already Done CySAFA (D) has been developed and delivered to users at an Alpha capability. Existing Team The existing team consists of Architecture Leads, Project Managers, and Technical Support staff. Current Phase Alpha Work Location - MOD Corsham - CGI, Reading (Prime Contractor) - Single Service CPTs (engagement), Bath, Portsmouth, Digby Working Arrangments Engagement is required across the user community. It is expected that the majority of the engagement will happen at MOD Corsham, but there are no requirements to work on-site by default. Access to MOD sites (other than being booked in for visits) and corporate IT will not be provided for this task. Security Clearance SC Clearance must be in place prior to the contract starting due to the projects the team are required to work with. The Authority WILL NOT sponsor SC or DV Clearance, it must be in place and remain valid for the duration of the contract. Additional T&Cs • Any report / review documentation will attract the classification of OFFICIAL-SENSITIVE. • We aim to get feedback to you within one week of the advert closing. • Bid Responses to be submitted on the templates provided and in Microsoft Office Excel/Word 2013 format only. • T&S will be paid based on receipted actuals and in compliance with MoD Policy, no other expenses are permitted. • Suppliers must use the Authorities Purchase to Payment Tool called CP&F or be prepared to sign up to the tool. • IR35 does not apply to this requirement. Skills & Experience Knowledge of MOD Defensive Cyber Operations Tools, Techniques and Procedures (Fixed and Deployed) - 20% Experience of reviewing technical architecture against known requirements - 20% Knowledge of Big Data Architectures generally, and the CySAFA project specifically - 20% Experience of eliciting user experiences in order to inform benefit analysis - 20% Nice to Haves Have ability to evaluate information and present in such a way that is easily understood by the target audience, including through written and oral communication - 10% Have ability to think creatively and be able to articulate innovative ideas to solving complex business and IT problems - 10% No. of Suppliers to Evaluate 3 Proposal Criteria Documented evidence of essential skills Documented proposed approach and methodology Documented proposal of how the approach or solution meets user needs Clear and concise evidence limited to 6 pages plus CV’s Detailed resources plan Estimated timeframes for the work Confirmation of existing clearances Value for money Cultural Fit Criteria Have excellent interpersonal and influencing skills and a positive approach - 5% Have the people skills to work with senior stakeholders to secure access to people in their working environment - 5% Values and behaviours in line with MOD core values - 5% Payment Approach Fixed price Assessment Method Written proposal Evaluation Weighting Technical competence 60% Cultural fit 15% Price 25% Questions from Suppliers Budget range nte £220k (inc vat) inclusive of all t&s costs.