Information technology services

Tender description

The digital services partner(s) will maintain and modernise current ARE payment systems, while they are transformed, or replaced over time to the services that will be required for new forms of support and advice outside of the current Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). However, Scottish Government is also considering the costs, benefits and risks of contracting with the same digital service partner(s) for the piloting and delivery of new capability, recognising that the transition from current operating model to a target operating model will be an iterative process. The platform processes payments of over GBP 540 million annually to customers, to the benefit of Scotland’s rural communities and our rural economy. The platform processes 41 800 claims per year for about 20 000 customers and has well over 99 % availability to customers 24/7, 365 days a year. ARE and the service provider/(s) will work in a collaborative environment to deliver the IT delivery programme in support of agricultural payments in accordance with Scottish Government’s Agriculture and Rural Economy policy. The scope of services of the baseline contracting opportunity is likely to include: — support, maintenance and enhancement across a wide range of existing systems i.e. business as usual activity — ‘Legacy’ system modernisation projects. ARE is also interested in developing a sourcing strategy for: — support in developing a digital strategic roadmap and new target operating model that supports ARE’s strategic objectives and outcomes, — support in piloting and delivery of new capability and new service models.