The Modern Network

Tender description

This procurement is for the design, build and operation of digital connectivity services to deliver the Modern Network. The Modern Network is part of the University of Bristol's "Digital Strategy", which sets out its vision and roadmap for future development of the University and its campus facilities. The Modern Network will be a high performance network with a world-class service management capability. This is a huge and exciting opportunity to create a prestigious, advanced digital platform that will power the global success of the University. The procurement is separated into three lots: Connectivity (design, deploy and operate services which comprise the physical connectivity of the Modern Network, including inter-building connections and intra-building connections); Network (design, deploy and operate services which comprise the physical components, software and logic elements needed to create and operate the network and the end-to-end services) and Service Management (design, deploy and operate service management capabilities required to achieve and maintain a world class service management capability). Lot 1: Connectivity Provision of design, deploy and operate services for this Lot which comprises the physical connectivity of the modern network. It includes inter-building connections and intra-building connections (that may traverse public or private land) and related components, such as: As directed, new ducts and new fibre connections; Metallic path connections, metallic and optical patch panels and related cabinets; Metallic and optical inter-building, inter-comms room, inter-switch or inter-cabinet cables; Metallic and optical paths (i.e. wiring/cabling/fibres) and their outlets between end users/devices and patch panels; Service Management activities (relevant to this Lot). Bidders should note that as part of this Lot there is an option to use existing duct and fibre infrastructure and an operational service that is jointly shared between the University and Bristol City Council. Bidders will be encouraged to use the existing duct and fibre infrastructure (where such use is deemed appropriate) in line with the University's focus on environmental and social responsibility. Lot 2: Network Provision of design, deploy and operate services for this Lot which comprises the physical components, software and logic elements needed to create and operate the network and the end-to-end services that will run on the services provided by Lot 1, such as: Controllers, routers, switches or forwarding devices; Critical components such as DHCP, DNS and NTP needed for the network to function; Logical configuration and operation of the network; Security capabilities such as network control points like firewalls, IDS and IPS and integration with University existing capabilities such as the Security Operations Centre; Performance optimisation capabilities, including capabilities such as dynamic interaction with applications or real time events; LAN and Wireless Services; Remote Access Services; Integration with the University’s IDAM solution; Leased circuits or broadband Internet connections (but not services used primarily for telephony); Orchestration and automation capabilities; Service Management activities (relevant to this Lot). Bidders should note that as part of this Lot there is an option to use existing duct and fibre infrastructure and an operational service that is jointly shared between the University and Bristol City Council. Bidders will be encouraged to use the existing duct and fibre infrastructure (where such use is deemed appropriate) in line with the University's focus on environmental and social responsibility. Bidders should be aware that, whilst connectivity to the University WAN is in scope of this Lot, the WAN itself is out of scope. Lot 3: Service Management The provision of design, deploy and operate service management capabilities required to achieve and maintain a world class service management capability, such as: A comprehensive and robust service management capability based around common industry frameworks; A co-sourced model where the University operates as both a supplier and customer, for example via the provision of the duct and fibre service in Lot 1 and Lot 2; Integration and oversight of service management capabilities from all Lots; Integration with the related University capabilities, such as a service catalogue and self-service capability; Identifying and agreeing suitable overall Service Level Targets and Service Level Agreements with the University; A single view of the Modern Network; A continuous improvement capability; Automation and orchestration capabilities;  Development and execution of a service management transformation plan. Bidders should note that all University end user service management interactions are anticipated to be via the University ITSM capability. For example, the University expects self-service interactions between end users and its service management portal to utilise a service catalogue with Modern Network entries that are integrated from a Lot 3 capability.