Digital National X-ray Competency Test (DNXCT) - Discovery Phase

Tender description

Why the Work is Being Done The National X-ray Competency Test (NXCT) is an X-ray screening image interpretation test all UK aviation security screeners must take annually. Currently, NXCT is distributed on a Compact Disc (CD) as three separate tests depending on screening area addressed (cabin baggage screening, hold baggage screening and cargo / mail screening) with limited fitness for purpose in the light of new X-ray technologies coming into the marketplace. This is because the test contains around 100 static 2D X-ray images across different test criteria with no interaction possible and does not address new 3D X-ray screening technologies To overcome this, a new digital service is needed to provide X-ray screening images tests which are compatible with the new X-ray technologies in the market. Problem to Be Solved • Establish the business and user need required for current NXCT and new DNXCT by interviewing DfT, CAA and end user stakeholders. • Review existing process of creating/updating test questions and propose streamlined process • Faster input of images as new threats emerge. • Detailed data analytics. • Creating test images. • Review and recommend test question design. • Streamline test delivery and improve version control • Interact with 2D and 3D security X-ray images via a web browser without too high a hardware requirement of the end user computer. • Replicate the look and colour palette of existing and future 2D and 3D imagery. The solution should adhere to the GDS’ Technology Code of Practice, Service Manual and DfT Architectural Principles Who Are the Users DfT staff: DfT develop the UKs aviation security policy and regulations. DfT research analysis and development team have commissioned this work and will be the main points of contact. CAA: CAA oversee setting the training and assessment syllabuses of aviation security operatives and hold a list of accredited training providers. Training providers: As well as providing the training, the training providers oversee the local delivery of the NXCT, currently on a PC with CD installation, but in future via a log in to DNXCT. Test takers: The test taker inputs their personal details to the online portal, then takes the test. Pass / Fail and detailed feedback shall be available immediately on test completion. Early Market Engagement Informal conversations have been had with knowledgeable parties on the type of underlying graphics engine that may be required for the DNXCT. This is the ability for complex 3D X-ray imagery to be transmitted and manipulated via a web browser with relatively low hardware requirements. This has de-risked the work to an extent in that DfT know that ground-up development of such a graphics engine should not be required during a future development phase. Work Already Done None beyond the small amount of market engagement described above. Bidders as part of the 2nd stage evaluation we require CVs of relevant Team members and Presentations (if required) Existing Team The appointed agency will be expected to work closely with members of the DfT Research Analysis and Development team, DfT Digital (Architecture, Data Protection and Cyber Security) stakeholders from CAA and some end user stakeholders. Current Phase Discovery Work Location Work can take place at supplier location. DfT lead is based at Great Minster House, 33 Horseferry Road, London, SW1P 4DR where stakeholder and checkpoint meetings shall to take place. Conducting of user research will require travel within the UK. Working Arrangments Suppliers to provide preferred approach. The exact milestones will be agreed with the supplier when appointed. Weekly status updates (email/telephone etc) detailing achievements of key milestones and issues that may impact timescales and any expenses will only be applicable outside of the M25 and under the Department for Transport rates. Estimated costs should be provided in the price breakdown. It is expected that the research questions should be fully answered in a final presentation and report. Discovery should be completed in line with the GDS Service Manual: https://www.gov.uk/service-manual and DfT Architecture principles and standards (made available upon request) Security Clearance The images to be used as part of the DNXCT will be classified at Official Sensitive, so SC clearance is required that must be current at contract start date. Evidence will be requested from bidders who are invited to stage 2 of this process Additional T&Cs Bidders who are invited to stage 2 will be asked for CVs of personnel who are identified as the team who will deliver this requirement Skills & Experience Experience of delivering a discovery phase in line with GDS guidelines for a government department Proven experience conducting and documenting user research with a diverse mix of users, iterating project work accordingly Demonstrable experience where delivering successful Discovery outcomes assisted to support and shape system developments Have demonstrable experience of complex technical investigation to inform future project stage Proven track record of delivering projects at speed using an agile project management methodology with clearly identified deliverables and timescales Demonstrable evidence of using clear development methodologies, outlining how this would work in conjunction with a client’s internal development team Experience of drawing up recommendations and options for alpha/beta on IT and data projects Experience in conducting stakeholder analysis where knowledge gaps were identified and plans implemented to address the shortfall. Demonstrable evidence and experience of Aviation Security X-ray screening, both 2D and 3D. Demonstrable evidence of understanding of X-ray image manipulation. Demonstrable evidence and knowledge of aviation threats. Demonstrable evidence and understanding of the ergonomics and human factors of test design and how to address the potential for test biases. Nice to Haves Demonstrable evidence where innovative solutions have been applied to assist in project delivery Demonstrable evidence of successfully managing and assisting in delivering IT projects within public sector organisations. Demonstrable evidence of using NCSC’s Security Design Principles for Digital Services (https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/security-design-principles-digital-services-main) No. of Suppliers to Evaluate 6 Proposal Criteria Identify the approach and methodology to the Discovery project planning and delivery, identifying the main stages and activities proposed at each stage. (25%) Demonstrable evidence of how the approach meets user needs (15%) How they’ve identified risks and dependencies and offered approaches to manage them (10%) Detailed resource plan – demonstrating how in-house, supplier and external resource will be used and at what stage (10%) Estimated timeframes for the work (5%) Team structure (3%) CVs(2%) Cultural Fit Criteria Demonstrable evidence and experience of working as a team with our organisation and other suppliers (2.5%) Demonstrable evidence and experience of transparent and collaborative decision making (2.5%) Demonstrable evidence and experience of taking responsibility for their work and resolving problems effectively (2.5%) Demonstrable evidence and experience of sharing approach, knowledge and skills with other team members and with the department by example (2.5%) Payment Approach Capped time and materials Assessment Method Case study Work history Presentation Evaluation Weighting Technical competence 70% Cultural fit 10% Price 20% Questions from Suppliers No questions have been answered yet Budget range £83,000 excluding vat