Summary
Abt Global is seeking Quotations for the following procurement:
- Project Title: M365 Universal Collaboration Tools Implementation Projects
- Program: Solomon Islands - Australia Partnership for Governance
- RFQ closing date and time: 24 March 2025, 11:59PM (Solomon Islands Standard Time)
The purpose of this project is to engage a qualified partner through an open tender process to assist SIG in planning, designing, implementing, and managing the change required to adopt Microsoft’s M365 Universal Collaboration Tools. This initiative aims to enhance communication, collaboration, and security within SIG while providing significant benefits and reducing risk and future-proofing the government’s ICT infrastructure.
For more information and relevant documents: https://www.abtglobal.com/doing-business-with-abt/solicitations
Description
Background
SIG ICT Services is the provider of all communication services within the Solomon Islands Government (SIG). Currently, the government predominantly relies on email and Zoom for internal and external communication. Due to budgetary constraints, Zoom licensing has been reduced, limiting effective collaboration across Ministries and Agencies.
Microsoft 365 (M365) offers a suite of Universal Collaboration Tools – including Teams for video conferencing and chat, OneDrive for file sharing and simultaneous working, and SharePoint as a central repository – that can transform the way SIG collaborates and communicates. These tools not only promise enhanced collaboration but also come with improved security features such as Multi-Factor Authentication, Conditional Access, and advanced antivirus/antimalware protection.
Microsoft has ceased releasing on-premises email systems. The last release was Exchange 2019. This version is End of Life in October 2025 with no further support or security updates available after that date. It is no longer possible to host Microsoft Exchange within a local environment.
As the Email System is a critical system of Government, it has been forced upon SIG to move to M365 for email to ensure the safety and security of this core communication system.
Recognizing these benefits and significant risks of no action, SIG is seeking to modernize its collaboration environment. This project represents a transformational opportunity similar in impact to the introduction of universal email access in 2014.
Project Objectives
- Modernize Communication: Replace or supplement existing communication tools with M365’s Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint and Email.
- Additional Implementations: Propose additional features that should be implemented as part of this M365 rollout.
- Transfer Data: Move existing emails
- Cost Reduction: Achieve significant cost savings by reducing reliance on expensive licences (e.g., Zoom).
- Enhanced Security: Leverage improved security features inherent in M365, including Multi-Factor Authentication and Conditional Access.
- Improved Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment through centralized document management, real-time communication, and file sharing.
- Change Management & Training: Develop and deliver comprehensive training and educational materials to ensure rapid adoption and effective use.
- Future-Proofing: Create an adaptable solution that prepares SIG for evolving ICT and security needs.
Deliverables
The partner is expected to deliver the following:
- Comprehensive Project Plan: Document outlining the overall strategy, timeline, and resource requirements.
- Needs Assessment Report: Analysis of current challenges and requirements.
- Solution Design Document: Detailed design and integration plan for M365 tools.
- Implementation Roadmap: Phased plan with clear milestones and deliverables.
- Training Materials: User manuals, online tutorials, and workshop content. I
- Change Management Strategy: Detailed plan to manage the transition and drive adoption.
- Deployment and Integration: Fully functional Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint environments.
- Post-Implementation Report: Evaluation report with performance metrics and future recommendations.
- Provide up to 5 days consulting time: To resolve issues arising post installation
- Provide 4 training vouchers and exams vouchers: for online instructor led training on M365
Roles and Responsibilities
SIG ICT Services
- Project Oversight: Provide overall guidance and oversight for the project.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitate engagement with key Ministries, Agencies, and end-users.
- Resource Provisioning: Ensure necessary ICT resources and internal expertise are available.
Selected Partner
- Project Execution: Lead the planning, design, implementation, and training phases.
- Technical Expertise: Provide subject matter expertise on M365 and best practices for digital collaboration.
- Change Management: Develop and implement a change management plan to ensure user adoption.
- Reporting: Provide regular progress updates and final project documentation.
Other Stakeholders
- End Users: Participate in training sessions and provide feedback during pilot testing.
- ICT Governance Bodies: Monitor compliance and ensure alignment with broader government ICT policies.
For any enquiries, please email: send the request to solomon.procurement@asipgov.org
Applications Close: 24 March 2025, 11:59PM (Solomon Islands Standard Time)
