Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure a subscription for an economic data software tool that provides comprehensive, reliable, and up-to-date economic datasets and analytical capabilities. The tool aims to support the Local Economic Development (LED) unit in evidence-based planning, policy formulation, investment promotion, and ongoing monitoring of economic trends at municipal, provincial, and national levels. It enables the municipality to analyze economic performance, identify sector opportunities, and produce quarterly updates independent of national sources.

Scope

The scope of the tender includes:

• Provision of access to an economic data platform containing detailed economic and socio-economic indicators relevant to South Africa, including regional GDP, employment, industry structure, trade data, and demographic indicators.
• Coverage across national, provincial, district, and municipal levels where available.
• Delivery of a platform capable of generating tables, charts, and reports in formats such as Excel and Word.
• Allowing data extraction, visualization, and reporting functionalities for planning and feasibility studies.
• Online or software-based access with user support and documentation.
• Support for multiple users within the organization.
• Quarterly data updates and regular maintenance.
• Skills transfer and training for municipal staff, including demonstration of the tool for onboarding.
• Installation, full setup, and training within a month of award.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications for the software tool include:

• Platform similar to Quantec or equivalent, containing detailed economic and socio-economic data relevant to South Africa at various administrative levels.
• Coverage of key datasets such as GVA/GDP by sector, employment, population, trade, income, productivity, and demographic indicators.
• Ability to generate customizable tables, charts, and reports in editable formats (Excel, Word).
• Online or software-based access with comprehensive user support and documentation.
• Multi-user access within the organization.
• Quarterly updates of datasets to ensure current information.
• Provision of an analyst or support person for maintenance and queries.
• Demonstration and onboarding sessions for users, either remotely or physically.

Skills Requirements

The successful service provider must demonstrate:

• Extensive experience in providing analytical software datasets related to South African economic indicators.
• Capability to deliver detailed economic and socio-economic data at national, provincial, district, and municipal levels.
• Proficiency in data visualization, report generation, and user training.
• Ability to provide ongoing support, updates, and maintenance for the duration of the subscription.
• Skilled personnel to conduct training sessions and demonstrate the platform to municipal staff.
• Experience in implementing similar economic data platforms for government or municipal clients.