Multi-party Framework Agreement for the provision, design and delivery of Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence Programmes

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 establishing a multi-party framework agreement for the provision, design, and delivery of Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) programmes. The anticipated number of framework members is 30, and the maximum expenditure over the life of the framework is €2,000,000 excluding VAT.

The contractor will be responsible for delivering high-quality training and skills development programmes that enhance digital fluency, data analytics capability, and AI-enabled decision-making across participating member companies. The specific activities include:

• Training Programmes: Delivering training in thematic areas such as:

• Data Literacy and Analytical Thinking

• Business Intelligence Tools and Platforms

• Data Management, Architecture, and Governance

• Analytics, Forecasting, and Decision Support

• Advanced Analytics and Data Science

• AI Literacy, Ethics, and Strategy

• Machine Learning and Predictive AI Applications

• Natural Language Processing and Generative AI

• Computer Vision and AI for Operations

• AI and Data Tools for Productivity and Performance

• Delivery Methods: Utilizing various training methods including classroom, online, blended, and practical familiarization to ensure effective learning outcomes.

• Monitoring and Evaluation: Implementing arrangements for monitoring learning outcomes, gathering participant feedback, and evaluating programme effectiveness.

• Customization: Tailoring course content to meet the specific needs of different organizations, roles, and experience levels.

The contractor must maintain full and proper records relating to the performance of its obligations under the framework agreement for a minimum of six years after the expiry of the framework period.

3. Background & buyer context

The procurement is being conducted by the Irish Centre for Business Excellence (ICBE) as part of a broader initiative to enhance the skills and capabilities of member companies through digital transformation and AI. This initiative is co-funded by Skillnet Ireland and aims to provide training and skills development programmes from 2026 to 2028. The strategic drivers include fostering innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable productivity growth among participating member companies.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria:

• Turnover requirement: Not specified for this tender.
• Insurance:
• Employers Liability: €13,000,000
• Public Liability: €2,400,000
• Professional Indemnity: €500,000
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: Bidders must demonstrate experience in delivering at least two relevant contracts within the last five years that are comparable in scale and complexity to the required services.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The overall price/quality split follows the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) principle.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documents:

• Method statement / response document: Use the provided Tender Response Document (TRD) template; adhere to page limits.
• CVs: Maximum two pages per individual for key personnel.
• Pricing schedule: Complete the specified format in the TRD.
• Case studies: Provide details of two relevant contracts, including client type, programme description, training methods, learning outcomes, and participant numbers.
• Declarations: Include ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest declarations.
• Mandatory site visit: Not specified for this tender.
• Submission portal: All submissions must be made via eTenders.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term + extension structure: The framework agreement is for a duration of four years.
• Payment terms: Not specified in the documents.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Not specified in the documents.
• Liquidated damages or penalty regimes: Not specified in the documents.
• Termination clauses: Not specified in the documents.
• IP ownership: Not specified in the documents.
• Sub-contracting rules: Not specified in the documents.
• Parent-company guarantee or bond requirements: Not specified in the documents.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns include:

• The requirement for a high level of insurance coverage may limit participation from smaller firms.
• The absence of specified turnover requirements could indicate a focus on qualitative criteria, which may disadvantage smaller bidders without extensive experience.
• The framework's maximum expenditure of €2,000,000 over four years suggests a significant commitment, which may deter firms unable to meet the financial demands.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is open to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that can demonstrate relevant experience in delivering digital transformation and AI training programmes.

• Credible bidders: Firms with experience in training delivery, particularly in digital and AI contexts, will be well-positioned to bid.
• Consortium or sub-contracting: Bidders are encouraged to form partnerships with other SMEs or larger enterprises to meet capacity requirements.
• Indicative bid-prep effort: Bidders should anticipate several days to prepare a comprehensive response, including case studies and methodology.
• Pwin signal: The presence of a framework agreement with multiple members may indicate a competitive environment, but the focus on qualitative criteria could favor experienced incumbents.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: TRD_RFT2_Digital_AI_updated.docx
• eTenders CFT ID: 8347678
• Contact email: Use the messaging facility on www.etenders.gov.ie
• Important attachments:
• Multi-party Framework Agreement Terms and Conditions
• Tender Response Document (TRD)