Market Engagement for the provision of an IT Network to support associated systems

Tender description

His Majesty’s Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) is in the early stages of preparing to initiate a procurement process for the provision of a complete IT Network to support associated services to facilitate activities for Employment, Skills and Work. The system will incorporate the design, test, deployment, maintenance, and continual development of the complete system including all the physical infrastructure, single or multiple operating systems (installed on physical devices and cloud based), software deployment functionality and the integration with other 3rd party systems and provide overarching system security. Lot 1: As part of the continual development and improvement of the way HMPPS delivery IT Network and Associated Services, we are exploring capabilities within the market with a view to better understanding how a new service could be delivered in supporting incoming providers within the new Prison Education Service. Due to the unique security and operational requirements of prisons, the IT Network and Associated Services will need to meet the requirements of HMPPS and undergo a stringent CHECK certified penetration test. Previous market engagement has explored the availability of Visual Learning Environments that will improve the learner experience and although not within this brief there is an expectation that the provider will work together to deliver the best experience for the learners in our care. The IT Network and Associated Services will be an online system but will need to interact with an offline in-cell laptop solution. Infrastructure outline (estimates with capacity to scale up) 8000 end user devices, (device to be explored) Relevant server infrastructure to support up to 103 plus sites Cabling infrastructure where needed Online connectivity – Broadband lines (Dedicated Direct to Internet Circuits) Backup and storage solutions 1000 printers 1050 Interactive displays with security controls Other peripheral devices to include but not limited to – Scanners, keyboards, mice, digital pads, web cams, headphones, microphones. The IT Network and Associated Services must as minimum meet the following requirements. The IT Network must support all areas of Reducing Re-offending, Learning Skills and Work New Futures Network Education Libraries Careers Information and Advice Guidance Services Prison Regime Activity Screening and Assessment Content Creator Centres The functionality to deploy an operating system or multiple operating systems to both the end user device and as a cloud-based solution. The functionality to manage and deploy software at network, individual computer, server, and cloud-based level against the requirements of the buyer. The maintenance of the IT Network and Associated Services to include but not limited to:- Hardware and infrastructure, System upgrades as required by the buyer (one upgrade within the 4 year contract at start), maintenance or replacement of peripherals. Service desk On-site engineer support Remote technical support System Training Interoperability with 3rd party and HMPPS system via application programme interface. A level of maintenance of APIs will be required. Full system security to meet HMPPS/MOJ/Cabinet Office requirements. Suppler required hold ISO27001/27002 Agile response to system change request (Contingency for development and system changes). Allow listing and category based to websites and services alongside web-browser management using role-based access controls. Active directory management. Service requirements delivered via the IT Network synchronisation to systems: Visual Learning Environment/Learning Management System Contract Management Data System Online Exam Facilitation from a range of awarding organisations using awarding body provided software/web-based services Jobs Board Labour Market Intelligence and Analytics CV Writing Facility Content creation with Role Based Access controls Staff CPD (PES Providers) Offline VLE/LMS Secure Email Screening and Assessment Libraries Structure for the engagement It is the intention to (invite interested organisations to complete a short Questionnaire and further) hold a showcase event for a select few, structured to enable potential providers to demonstrate their approach to a Digital IT Network to a group of technical and programme staff from His Majesties Prison Service. The demonstration will be directly with a single provider per slot and will not involve other providers or delivered within a group setting Additional information: Additional information must be requested by email to stuart.taylor6@justice.gov.uk