Purpose

To request authority to award a contract to provide technical support and expertise to mibilise AI/Oracle automation activitires to deliver benefits and savings.

Decision

That the Director of Communications, Insight and Innovation:

i)               Approves the pre-tender considerations.

ii)              Approves the award of the contract for services to provide technical assistance support and expertise required to contribute to the bridging work to mobilise AI/Oracle automation to Version 1 Solutions Ltd for 12 weeks in the sum of £300,000, by way of a direct award from the Technology Services 4 RM6190, Lot 5a: Application and Data Management Services.

Reasons for the decision

Officers have undertaken a review of the Council’s internal working practices and identified opportunities to improve efficiency through the use of automated and AI-enabled solutions. The implementation of these automation measures has the potential to deliver service improvements and longer-term savings, while supporting more effective and consistent ways of working.

In order to progress this work, officers reviewed supplier catalogue items available under the Technology Services 4 (RM6190), Lot 5a Framework. This review assessed the extent to which the available catalogue items met the Counc’l's defined requirements, including the need for specialist technical expertise and experience in delivering automation and AI-enabled solutions within the public sector.

Following the assessment, Version 1 Solutions Ltd has been identified as the supplier whose catalogue item best aligns with the Council’s requirements. The supplier has demonstrated the necessary technical capability and specialist skills, and has been identified through the framework as suitably qualified to deliver the proposed solution.

Alternative options considered

Officers considered a range of alternative options for delivering the required services, including providing the work in-house and undertaking a competitive tender exercise.

Having considered these options, officers concluded that a direct award through the appropriate framework would be the most suitable and proportionate approach, ensuring access to the required specialist exertise in a timely and compliant manner.