The federal Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research has flagged plans to replace a desktop computer supply contract held until recently by Dell, as part of a broader move to Windows Vista and Office 2007.
The hardware refresh comes as part of the agency's plan to upgrade its Windows XP Service Pack 2 operating systems to Windows Vista. The agency has also planned to deploy Office 2007 in place of its current 2003 Office suite.
The department is Australia's peak innovation agency and is responsible for several national initiatives and research organisations that aim to improve the efficiency of the Australian economy.
The contract had been held by Dell until 30 June this year; however, the department waited until 11 August to go to market for a new supplier. Dell could also win the contract again.
The department has required an immediate refresh of its existing stock of PCs, with staff currently using computers that are over four years old. It has anticipated that 2,400 desktops and 400 laptops will be required to be delivered before December this year.
The purchasing initiative will also cover requirements of Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism. The tender will close on 1 September 2008.
If they really want to improve efficiency and provide opportunities for Australia, they need to think outside the square - after all that's their job. Vista and Office 2007 is not innovation, its procrastination.