Section one: Contracting authority/entity
one.1) Name and addresses
THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM
Edgbaston
BIRMINGHAM
B152TT
Contact
Emma Priest
Country
United Kingdom
Region code
UKG31 - Birmingham
Companies House
RC000645
Internet address(es)
Main address
one.4) Type of the contracting authority
Body governed by public law
one.5) Main activity
Education
Section two: Object
two.1) Scope of the procurement
two.1.1) Title
stARS project - Central Data Software Limited
Reference number
SC13243/24
two.1.2) Main CPV code
- 48000000 - Software package and information systems
two.1.3) Type of contract
Supplies
two.1.4) Short description
The University of Birmingham has ambitious plans to be a leading global University. In order to achieve this, it needs to have; modern flexible systems that support efficient processes, effective decision making and provide meaningful management information.
The developer will be working on StARS (Student Administration Refresh and Simplification) which is a University-wide transformation programme to simplify, standardise and improve our student administration processes and as a consequence its services to students and staff, key enabler of this being by an upgrade of our student record system. Its vision is to deliver a better experience for students, academics and professional services staff; and enables a fundamental shift towards a more flexible set of capabilities and services that are fit for the future.
The Banner Lead Developer will be responsible for implementing the solution designs for each of the workstream releases, working closely with the Project Managers, Business Analysts, Programme IT Architect and other consultants (e.g. Ellucian), whilst ensuring that implementations of the solution design are compliant with the broader programme principles of utilising the core capability and functionality of the Banner product set.
two.1.6) Information about lots
This contract is divided into lots: No
two.1.7) Total value of the procurement (excluding VAT)
Value excluding VAT: £338,900
two.2) Description
two.2.2) Additional CPV code(s)
- 48219300 - Administration software package
two.2.3) Place of performance
NUTS codes
- UKG31 - Birmingham
two.2.4) Description of the procurement
The Central Data Software Limited will support the University of Birmingham's (UoB) StARS Programme team by providing detailed Banner technical development expertise essential to driving the successful implementation of critical Banner modules in scope.
Scope of Work
This includes, but is not limited to:
• Development of Key Processes: Leading the development of vital processes for the programme, including:
o ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes for data migration and transformation to ensure accurate and efficient data transfer between systems.
o Development of self-service applications such as Online Registration, My Details, Course and Module Catalogue, and Reasonable Adjustments. These applications will use a variety of technologies, including React, Oracle PL/SQL, Ellucian Page Builder, Ellucian Workflow, Ellucian Ethos, and Banner Document Manager, which ensures seamless integration, enhanced functionality, and optimal user experience across all platforms.
• Knowledge Transfer from Suppliers: Receive ongoing knowledge transfer from the Universities Framework supplier and other third-party suppliers, enabling the company to develop solutions that adhere to the StARS programme principles. These principles ensure UoB is utilising the core Banner product, with any custom developments or deviations requiring programme governance approval.
• Internal Knowledge Transfer and BAU Transition Support: Facilitate knowledge transfer to other StARS developers, ensuring that skills and knowledge gained are effectively shared and support a smooth transition to Business-As-Usual (BAU) operations.
two.2.11) Information about options
Options: No
Section four. Procedure
four.1) Description
four.1.1) Type of procedure
Negotiated without a prior call for competition
- The works, supplies or services can be provided only by a particular economic operator for the following reason:
- absence of competition for technical reasons
Explanation:
The University of Birmingham licenses its Student Record System Software (Banner) from Ellucian, which has been foundational to its academic and administrative processes.
Central Data Software Limited The company has worked with UoB for over two years, demonstrating both the expertise and adaptability essential to supporting the StARS Programme's ambitious goals.
Specialised Expertise and Established Knowledge:
• Central Data Software Limited The company brings extensive technical expertise in technologies and methodologies essential to StARS delivery, such as ETL, React, Oracle PL/SQL, Ellucian Workflow, and Banner Document Manager. Beyond technical skills, the company has developed a deep understanding of UoB's unique processes in areas like Online Registration, Student Fees, Course and Module Catalogue, Reasonable Adjustments, and Progression-areas critical to the programme's core objectives.
Time Efficiency:
• Central Data Software Limited The company's established knowledge and familiarity with our systems and processes allow for immediate and effective contributions, which would not be possible with a new provider. The time required to bring another supplier up to this level of understanding would be significant, leading to delays in the project timeline and impacting key programme milestones. Retaining this partnership ensures continuity and minimises the time loss that would otherwise be incurred through an extensive onboarding and training period with a new vendor.
• Continuity and Risk Mitigation: The StARS Programme's success depends on continuity, particularly in complex areas like data migration, student records management, and integrated reporting. Disruption in this partnership could lead to delays, increased costs, and potential misalignment with programme principles. By retaining this experienced partner, UoB can mitigate these risks and ensure a stable, continuous path toward full programme implementation.
The ongoing contribution of this company remains pivotal to achieving the objectives of the StARS Programme within both budgetary and timeline constraints
four.1.8) Information about the Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)
The procurement is covered by the Government Procurement Agreement: No
Section five. Award of contract/concession
A contract/lot is awarded: Yes
five.2) Award of contract/concession
five.2.1) Date of conclusion of the contract
15 November 2024
five.2.2) Information about tenders
The contract has been awarded to a group of economic operators: No
five.2.3) Name and address of the contractor/concessionaire
CENTRAL DATA SOFTWARE LIMITED
oxford
Country
United Kingdom
NUTS code
- UKJ14 - Oxfordshire
Companies House
06581217
The contractor/concessionaire is an SME
Yes
five.2.4) Information on value of contract/lot/concession (excluding VAT)
Initial estimated total value of the contract/lot/concession: £338,900
Total value of the contract/lot/concession: £338,900
Section six. Complementary information
six.4) Procedures for review
six.4.1) Review body
University of Birminham
Edgbaston
Country
United Kingdom