Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a service provider to implement an enterprise search engine, preferably integrated with a workflow solution, for the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). The solution aims to replace existing search functions and facilitate automation of business processes, ensuring improved data retrieval, scalability, and future integration capabilities. Additionally, the provider will deliver training, maintenance, and support throughout the contract period.

Scope

The scope includes:

• Provision of an enterprise search engine capable of collecting, indexing, and searching data from multiple sources, both internal and external.
• Integration of the search engine with a workflow solution (if offered), replacing current systems such as Computron and Verity.
• Implementation of features like keyword, phrase, phonetic, and similarity searches, with support for large data volumes (tens of millions of comparisons).
• Integration with existing systems such as K2 and Ptolemy trademarks software.
• Provision of a scalable, modern solution with machine learning capabilities for relevance ranking based on user behavior.
• Delivery of training, support, and maintenance services over a 60-month period.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications for the enterprise search engine include:

• Ability to store collections in databases for optimal speed, with support for flat files.
• Capability to update collections via triggers from CIPC databases.
• Support for keyword, phrase, phonetic, and similarity searches.
• Machine learning features to enhance search relevance.
• Integration with databases such as Oracle, SQL Server, Informix.
• Ability to incorporate legislative dictionaries for name validation and compliance.
• Support for future API integration with workflow solutions.
• High scalability to handle extensive data comparisons.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• Proven experience in deploying enterprise search engines with similar features.
• Capability to develop and integrate workflow automation solutions.
• Expertise in database management and data integration.
• Knowledge of machine learning techniques relevant to search relevance ranking.
• Experience in training users and technical staff on the deployed solutions.
• Ability to provide ongoing support and maintenance, including troubleshooting and updates.
• Security screening and adherence to confidentiality and occupational health and safety standards.