The Request for Information (RFI) is a tool being used by government agencies more frequently as a way of engaging with industry and undertaking market reserach prior to the issue of a Request for Tender (FRT). An RFI can be structured to determine a number of things including the best contract format to issue, the feasibility or availablity of a proposed technical solution, industry’s willingness to tender for a specific requirement or the level of competiveness in the market for a particular requirement. In the majority of cases, responding to an RFI is not a requirement for inclusion in future related procurement activity. However, it is a Tenderer’s opportunity to shape a future procurement and develop a profile for their business within the procuring agency. So if you can spare the time, it is worth your while submitting a response, even if it is only partial.

This week we look at an RFI issued by the Royal Australian Mint for the provision of information on Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) to meet the requirements of the production environment of the Mint. Autonomous technologies are developing rapidly, as such an approach to industry for the latest information is a worthwhile exercise to enable a robust approach to market and reduce the risks associated with the proposals not matching the expected outcome.The Mint is requesting information on the following:

• A list of ideal customer specifications that would enable development of a robust, fit-for-purpose proposal for the provision of:
  1. An AGV system for use in a manufacturing production environment
  2. A warehousing and inventory management software to manage stock locations, stock status and AGV movements, for integration with existing MES (Manufacturing Execution System) software
  3. A high-density storage solution for the storing and retrieval of pallets of stock within a secure basement storage area, that may include automation

Recommended attachments that could be included in the ATM to help develop a response can be suggested. For example, building layout drawings.

The information should be in a format that Mint staff can use as the basis of a technical dossier to underpin an ATM. Information received in the RFI will be considered during this process.

The RFI closes on 11 November 2022.

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