As part of its digital transformation programme and drive for improved systems, The Education and Training Foundation (ETF) have embarked on the procurement of a new finance system. The current system (Sage 200 / WAP) is no longer deemed to be sufficient to support the current structure, need for future fluidity and current reporting demands. There are also issues with how other systems within ETF communicate with the finance system, leading to potential non-compliance with finance regulations and Making Tax Digital (MTD).

The decision has been made to review the market for systems that can provide solutions to all issues and can integrate with ETF’s Azure database. This document is the initiation of that process, with a view to shortlisting a number of systems to be presented to an interview panel, with further analysis and discussion as appropriate. ETF is looking to elect one supplier as a long-term systems partner.

The aim of this tender is to secure a new finance system including procurement functionality and which can integrate with existing systems. Full details of the requirements of the platform are set out in Part 2 of the Tender Response Document.

ETF is open to proposals from either one bidder which can both provide and implement the solution, or from bidders acting as an implementation partner for third-party software providers, or from bidders proposing the use of their own software via a preferred implementation partner. The budget provided in all bids should cover all project requirements and elements including any third-party costs.

The value of the contract across the full five years is up to 200000GBP including VAT.