Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to secure the services of a qualified supplier to print and distribute the Braille edition of the Vuk’uzenzele government newspaper for a period of three (3) years. The goal is to ensure accessible information reaches visually impaired individuals and groups, demonstrating a commitment to universal access and social responsibility. The supplier must also be capable of providing auditable reports on distribution activities.

Scope

The scope includes:

• Printing approximately 2,000 Braille copies per month (1,000 copies per edition, two editions per month).
• Distribution of Braille editions to relevant individuals, organizations, schools, and tertiary institutions using an existing distribution database.
• Developing a project plan demonstrating understanding of objectives and components.
• Implementing an auditable distribution process ensuring accurate delivery.
• Ensuring quality control to match supplied content and error-free printing.
• Providing reports on distribution twice a month.
• Adhering to technical specifications such as paper weight, publication size, and Braille coding standards.

Technical Requirements

• Use of 140-160gsm paper with a dot impact height of 0.65mm – 0.9mm.
• Publication size of 240 x 285mm / A4 magazine style.
• Production of 2,000 Braille copies monthly, with flexibility for adjustments.
• Implementation of an auditable distribution process with a maintained distribution database.
• Strict quality control measures to ensure content accuracy and error-free printing.
• Completion of printing within 10 days of receipt of final English edition, with distribution starting on day 11.
• Provision of delivery confirmation reports upon invoicing.

Skills and Experience Requirements

• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in printing, quality checking, and distributing braille materials.
• Proven ability to produce high-quality braille publications and distribute to targeted audiences.
• Demonstrated capability to develop and execute a detailed project plan with clear milestones and schedules.
• Existing and up-to-date distribution database including relevant recipients and institutions.
• Ability to develop auditable distribution reports and maintain strict quality control measures.
• Provision of at least three (3) samples of similar braille work previously completed.
• Clear understanding of technical specifications, including Braille standards and publication formatting.
• Capability to provide cost estimates for distribution using own or third-party resources.