Request for Tender for the Provision of Research and Analytical Services for the Irish Digital News Report

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

The contract involves the provision of research and analytical services to support the production of the annual Irish Digital News Report. The successful contractor will be responsible for the following activities:

• Data Analysis: Analyze survey datasets provided as part of an international digital news consumption study.
• Report Production: Produce an Ireland-focused research report that examines trends in news consumption, media usage, and audience behaviors.
• Report Specifications: The report should be approximately 30 pages in length and include a foreword, executive summary, methodology note, and detailed analysis of survey data.
• Data Visualization: Incorporate effective data visualization techniques, including charts and infographics, to enhance the report's accessibility.
• Comparative Analysis: Conduct detailed analysis comparing Ireland-specific data with selected markets (the UK, US, and Europe) by key demographics and media usage variables.
• Delivery Timeline: The report is expected to be delivered annually, with the first report due within the contract's initial 12-month period.

The scope explicitly excludes statutory reviews, assessments of Public Service Media submissions, and development of funding recommendations.

3. Background & buyer context

The procurement is initiated as the current contractual arrangements for the annual Reuters Digital News Report conclude in 2026. Coimisiún na Meán has sponsored Ireland's participation in the international survey since 2015, with the report becoming essential for understanding media trends in Ireland. The Commission aims to enhance its strategic outcomes related to democracy and media culture through this research, aligning with broader government objectives in media development and online safety.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria:

• Turnover Requirement: Average annual turnover of at least €100,000 for the last three financial years.
• Insurance:
• Employers Liability Insurance – €13 million
• Public Liability Insurance – €6.5 million
• Professional Indemnity Insurance – €1 million
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past Experience: At least two comparable contracts completed within the last five years or currently ongoing.
• Personnel: Key personnel must have relevant qualifications and experience, with CVs required.
• Geographic Constraints: Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The overall scoring will follow a Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) approach, with a minimum score of 60% required for each qualitative criterion.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documents:

• Method Statement: Complete the Tender Response Document, adhering to page limits specified.
• CVs: Provide CVs for key personnel, with a maximum of 2 pages each.
• Pricing Schedule: Use the specified Form of Tender, expressed in Euro (€) and exclusive of VAT.
• Case Studies: At least two relevant case studies demonstrating past experience.
• Declarations: Complete declarations including ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest.
• Mandatory Site Visit: Not specified for this tender.
• Submission Portal: Tenders must be submitted electronically via www.etenders.gov.ie.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Duration: Initial term of 12 months, with an option to extend for an additional 12 months.
• Payment Terms: Payments will be made based on valid invoices, adhering to the Commission's payment terms.
• SLA/KPI: Timely delivery of the report is critical, with specific timelines for data analysis and report publication.
• Termination: The Commission reserves the right to terminate the contract with minimum notice.
• IP Ownership: The Commission retains ownership of all intellectual property generated during the contract.
• Sub-contracting: Allowed, but the Prime Contractor must be clearly identified.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns include:

• Turnover Requirement: The minimum turnover requirement of €100,000 may limit participation to established firms, potentially excluding smaller entities.
• Complex Data Analysis: The requirement for detailed comparative analysis may pose challenges for bidders without prior experience in similar projects.
• Tight Timeline: The expectation for timely delivery of the report following data receipt may be challenging, especially if unforeseen delays occur in data availability.

10. SME fit assessment

• Credible Bidders: Suitable bidders include small to medium-sized research organizations, academic institutions, or consultancy firms with experience in media research and data analysis.
• Consortium/Sub-contracting: Bidders may form consortia or subcontract, but must designate a Prime Contractor responsible for contract performance.
• Bid Preparation Effort: Estimated preparation time is approximately 10-15 days, depending on the complexity of the proposal.
• Pwin Signal: The presence of established firms in the sector may indicate a competitive environment, but the contract is open to various qualified bidders.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT Filename: RFT Reuters Digital June 2026.pdf
• eTenders CFT ID: not specified
• Contact Email: not specified
• Important Attachments:
• Appendix 2 – Terms and Conditions of Supply of Services
• Tender Response Document