The organisation's chief information officer, Jane Treadwell, is seeking responses to its upcoming request for tender (RFT) -- which has stemmed from its data network redesign project -- from small and regional carriers, because it will continue to manage its carriage services in-house.
"Centrelink is well positioned to manage its carriage requirements. This provides opportunities for small and regionally based service providers in this highly competitive market," a statement released by the agency said. "The RFT... will retain management and design control within Centrelink."
The organisation is projecting a startling ten-fold increase in its requirements over five years, and says existing retail-sourced frame relay connections are unlikely to stay cost effective.
The key to success in the tender process is straightforward -- Treadwell says Centrelink is seeking quality of service through technical excellence. -Successful suppliers are expected to commit a close relationship with Centrelink which will be based on measured technical excellence," Treadwell said.
The RFT will be available at 5pm on Friday October 10.
