Systems and technical consultancy services

Tender description

Ofcom has a requirement for testing of the winner determination algorithms and verification of the final results of an electronic system designed to run an auction. We expect to hold the auction in FY Q4 2019/2020 to award licences for spectrum in the 700 MHz and 3.6-3.8 GHz bands. Ofcom is the communications regulator in the UK. We regulate the TV and radio sectors, fixed line telecoms, mobiles, postal services, plus the airwaves over which wireless devices operate. Ofcom operates under a number of Acts of Parliament, including in particular the Communications Act 2003 and the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006. Ofcom must act within the powers and duties set for it by Parliament in legislation. Ofcom’s principal duty under the communications Act is to further the interests of citizens and of consumers, where appropriate by promoting competition. Meeting this duty is at the heart of everything we do. Ofcom has a requirement for independent testing and verification of the winner determination calculation of an electronic auction system (EAS) designed to run an auction. As a minimum, the service must deliver the following: — independent testing of the EAS implementation of the winner determination algorithm for the principal stage; and — verification and certification of the results of principal stage for the actual auction. The service should also be capable of delivering the following optional work items, which Ofcom may commission at its discretion: — independent testing of the EAS implementation of the winner determination algorithm for the assignment stage; and — verification and certification of the results of assignment stage for the actual auction. Ofcom published a consultation on 18.12.2018 setting out our proposed auction policy, including proposed auction rules. Ofcom also published on 31.1.2019 a consultation on draft Auction Regulations, which would give effect to the policy proposals set out in the December consultation. The proposed rules have not yet been finalised and may be subject to change through the consultation process. The final auction rules will ultimately be written into Auction Regulations. Ofcom has recently procured a supplier to develop and deliver the EAS to run this auction, in accordance with the proposed auction rules set out in the illustrative auction procedures at annex 16 of our 18.12.2018 consultation. The successful tenderer will be required to work collaboratively with the software supplier throughout the testing process. It is envisaged that the EAS supplier will provide the tester with a standalone version of the EAS winner determination software that the successful tenderer will test from its own premises.