Multi-party Framework Agreement for the provision, design and delivery of Automation, Robotics and Cobotics 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 the provision, design, and delivery of Automation, Robotics, and Cobotics programmes aimed at enhancing the skills and capabilities of member companies. The framework will support training initiatives over a four-year period, with a maximum expenditure of €2,000,000.

Key activities include:

• Training Course Delivery:

• Automation Fundamentals and Industry 4.0

• Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

• Collaborative Robotics (Cobotics)

• Industrial Robotics and Automation Systems

• Intelligent Automation and Hyperautomation

• Automation Design and Implementation

• Digital Manufacturing and Smart Factory Technologies

• Automation Control Systems and SCADA

• Autonomous Systems and Advanced Robotics

• Integration of Automation with Business Systems

• Training Methods:

• Classroom-based, online, blended learning, and practical familiarisation sessions.

• Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Collecting participant feedback and assessing learning outcomes to ensure programme effectiveness.

• Customisation:

• Tailoring course content to meet the specific needs of different organisations and roles.

• Documentation:

• Maintaining records of training delivery and participant engagement for a minimum of six years post-framework expiry.

The contractor must demonstrate the ability to deliver programmes that align with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement aligns with the strategic objectives of the Irish Centre for Business Excellence (ICBE), which is co-funded by Skillnet Ireland and member companies. The initiative aims to provide training and skills development programmes for member companies from 2026 to 2028. The current tender is a response to the growing demand for advanced manufacturing technologies and workforce agility in the context of Industry 4.0.

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: Minimum of two comparable projects in the last five years, demonstrating capability in Automation, Robotics, and Cobotics.
• Personnel: Key personnel must possess relevant qualifications and experience in delivering the specified training.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The evaluation will follow a Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) approach, focusing on both price and quality.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documents:

• Method statement / response document: Use the provided template and adhere to page limits.
• CVs: Maximum of two pages per individual for key personnel.
• Pricing schedule: Complete the specified format in the tender response document.
• Case studies: Two recent and relevant contracts demonstrating capability in the required areas.
• Declarations: Include ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest declarations.
• Mandatory site visit: Not specified for this tender.
• Submission portal: Tenders must be submitted via eTenders, following specific format rules.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term: The framework agreement will last for four years.
• Payment terms: Payments will be made based on the delivery of training services as per the agreed rates.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Performance metrics will be established to monitor the effectiveness of training delivery.
• Liquidated damages: Not specified for this tender.
• Termination clauses: The contracting authority reserves the right to terminate the agreement under specific conditions.
• IP ownership: Not specified for this tender.
• Sub-contracting rules: Subcontracting is allowed, but the primary contractor must ensure compliance with all tender requirements.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns include:

• Turnover threshold: The absence of a specified turnover requirement may indicate a low barrier to entry, potentially leading to a wide range of bidders.
• Geographic constraints: Not specified, which may allow for broader participation but could also lead to inconsistencies in service delivery.
• Funding dependency: The framework is contingent on funding from Skillnet Ireland, which may impact the availability of resources.
• Incumbent advantage: Previous providers may have an edge due to established relationships and familiarity with the contracting authority's requirements.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is open to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with relevant experience in delivering training in Automation, Robotics, and Cobotics.

• Credible bidders: Firms with expertise in advanced manufacturing technologies and a track record of delivering similar training programmes.
• Consortium or sub-contracting: Allowed, provided that the primary contractor meets all selection criteria.
• Indicative bid-prep effort: Approximately 10-15 days to prepare a comprehensive response, including case studies and documentation.
• Pwin signal: The absence of a specified turnover requirement may indicate a more accessible bidding environment, but the presence of established providers could affect competitiveness.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: TRD_RFT1_Automation_Robotics_Cobotics.docx
• eTenders CFT ID: not specified
• Contact email: not specified
• Important attachments:
• Appendix B2 — Suitability Assessment
• Mandatory Requirements Schedule
• Tender Response Document