Increasingly, government agencies are issuing Requests for Information (RFI) prior to the release of a detailed Request for Tender or Proposal. These RFIs provide a mechanism for government to seek out possible solutions or options and gain a better understanding of what is available in the market. While RFIs technically have no bearing on a company’s potential success in any related Approaches to Market, it is generally good practice to take part. By responding to an RFI you at least make your company known should you be new to the industry, or reaffirm your position of expertise in the market. Furthermore by providing information that is sought by a government agency, you have the potential to influence the outcome of the final Scope, Specification or Statement of Work should the procurement reach that stage.
In ICT, where the landscape changes rapidly, RFIs are becoming more popular allowing government to remain somewhat informed about what’s available or even possible. This week the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Department of Human Services have both released RFIs seeking ICT solutions.
Data Science Platform RFI: Issued by APRA, this RFI seeks a software solution that would support data scientists working with business partners to develop data driven insights from structured and unstructured private and public data sources. This project aims to build a data science capability and establish an environment to experiment with information and test the value of answers to business questions. The aim is to use open source tools and to explore, model and build prototypes that aid internal users to access insights that are not currently possible through standard reporting and analytics tools. This RFI closes 24 April 2019.
Software solutions to integrate SAP ERP to extend coverage of Corporate Business Process: This RFT issued by Human Services is intended to obtain information to assist the department in deciding on procurement options for its Non-Core ERP Requirements. The department recognises that ERP requirements can be complex, and that the success of the ERP solutions is significantly impacted by the quality of the department’s specifications, the nature of the implementation environment, input provided by relevant stakeholders, and budget constraints. They are seeking industry input on available software products that could meet the requirement. This RFI closes 23 April 2019.
If you are after further advice on this topic or any other opportunity listed below, feel free to contact us. You can also subscribe to this newsletter for regular weekly updates.
