CSIRO moves on IT savings

The step follows the CSIRO's amalgamation of divisional IT resources into one organisation, CSIRO IT, which is designed to operate under an "insourced - outsourced" model -- providing the services of an outsourcer with internal staff and resources.

The amalgamation is part of a broader strategic goal to build a "one-CSIRO" approach to providing support to the science projects delivered by the organisation. In line with the broader goals, CSIRO IT would leverage its size and reputation to secure savings through enterprise deals.

In a document lodged on the AusTender Web site, the CSIRO said successful bidders would be involved in formulating capability needs and all schedules, such as statements of work, pricing schedules, service levels and service credit schedules. They would also be involved in evaluation and negotiation.

CSIRO IT is, according to the organisation, planning to standardise what is a raft of hardware, software and services contracts throughout the organisation "within enterprise agreements for individual hardware and support silos as defined by CSIRO IT".

CSIRO IT has more than 280 IT staff with a significant annual budget, and provides IT services to 6,500 staff in 60 CSIRO locations across Australia. Its support services encompass service desk, networks, voice services, desktop, database administration and storage services.