Cardiff University seeks e-marketplace solution

Deal with chosen supplier could last for up to 20 years

Cardiff University is looking for a supplier to implement and support an e-marketplace solution in a deal that could be extended for up to 20 years.

The university did not disclose financial terms in the online public tender, adding that the timeframe for the initial agreement is unknown.

The Welsh university said the service will have to incorporate a catalogue content management solution, electronic invoicing capability with three-way automatic matching to a valid purchase order as well as an approved receiver and two-way automated document transmission to suppliers.

The tender states that the solution will have to integrate seamlessly with Oracle's R12.0.06 e-business suite, which the university currently uses.

"Oracle iProcurement provides a web-based shopping system that allows university staff to create, manage and track their own orders. When integrated with other Oracle modules, it incorporates sophisticated workflow technology to streamline the process of authorising requisitions as well as automating the process of transforming requisitions into purchase orders and electronically distributing them to suppliers," reads the tender.

The new catalogue content management solution must be able to add, delete and make amendments to any file. It should also map product classifications from the classification hierarchy UNSPSC to sector procurement body Proc-HE and vice versa.

It must also be able to deal with a range of pricing structures, allowing the university to maintain in its records.

The supplier is required to work with the university and with Oracle EBS Support service provider Patech Solution in a joint approach to systems integration, upgrade management and security, content management and system maintenance.

The university said it would prefer a supplier to host the solution externally and will accept applications from interested parties until 26 March.