Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure professional ICT services related to Microsoft SQL, aimed at enhancing the South African Weather Service's (SAWS) database infrastructure, security, and management capabilities. The services include providing expert support, skills transfer, and consultancy to ensure optimal performance, security, and compliance of SAWS's Microsoft SQL environment over a period of 12 months.

Scope

The scope of the tender encompasses:

• Provision of Microsoft SQL Professional Services on an as-and-when basis for 12 months, including resource management and performance guarantees.
• Delivery of specialized skills in database security, disaster recovery, configuration, monitoring, auditing, replication, and compliance.
• Development of current (AS IS) and future (TO BE) state assessments of SAWS's SQL environment, including migration planning, infrastructure requirements, and best practices.
• Conducting health assessments of the SQL environment and providing consultancy on related issues.
• Skills transfer and mentoring of internal SAWS staff in SQL database management and administration.
• Ensuring high availability (98% uptime) of the ICT infrastructure supporting meteorological data collection and management.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Certification as a Microsoft Software Partner (Silver or Gold) in relevant areas such as Solutions Partner (Infrastructure Azure, Data & AI).
• Resources with minimum qualifications: National Diploma in Information Systems, IT, or Computer Science.
• Experienced personnel: Microsoft SQL Database Developer and Administrator with at least 3-4 years of relevant experience.
• Provision of evidence such as certification, references, and project experience demonstrating compliance with mandatory technical criteria.
• Implementation of database security, disaster recovery, monitoring, auditing, replication, and governance measures.
• Ability to develop migration plans, conduct health assessments, and provide ongoing consultancy for SQL environment optimization.
• Adherence to Microsoft best practices and compliance standards, including transfer of skills and knowledge to SAWS staff.

Skills Requirements

The skills and expertise required from the service provider include:

• Microsoft SQL Database development and administration skills, with proven experience (minimum 3-4 years).
• Certifications from Microsoft (Silver or Gold Partner status) in relevant areas.
• Strong understanding of database security, disaster recovery, configuration, monitoring, and auditing.
• Ability to develop and implement migration strategies and health assessments.
• Experience in providing consultancy services related to SQL environment management and optimization.
• Capacity to transfer knowledge and mentor internal staff effectively.
• Proven track record through reference letters and project documentation.