Tenders invited for provision of government Wi-Fi and data centre services

The government is inviting tenders for the implementation of the Next Generation Government Wi-Fi Programme and the provision of hosting services for departmental information systems.

"The Government has been adopting a vigorous IT outsourcing policy to tap the expertise and talent of the private sector. On the one hand this helps enhance our service capacity and accelerate the delivery of IT solutions, and on the other hand generates more business opportunities and facilitates the development of the local IT industry," a spokesman for OGCIO said.

The Next Generation GovWiFi Programme will succeed the existing programme with enhanced services upon expiry of the current service contract at the end of 2012. The selected contractors will be responsible for the provision of hardware and software, installation, site preparation, daily operation and maintenance, Internet connection and helpdesk services under bundled service contracts. The service period is five years - until the end of 2017.

 "Implementation of the new programme will enable the public and visitors to enjoy free GovWiFi services in more government premises. It will also stimulate the development of wireless Internet services by the commercial sector and help develop Hong Kong as a city with ubiquitous wireless facilities," the spokesman said.

Regarding the tender for the hosting of departmental information systems, the contractor is required to provide hosting services at its data centres for six information systems of various bureaux/departments. The scope of services includes data centre infrastructure services, disaster recovery services, printing services, operation and support services. The contract will last for seven years and succeed the existing service contract, which expires at the end of 2012.

The spokesman said this outsourcing arrangement would enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness in providing data centre services for bureaux/departments, and at the same time help foster the growth of the data centre service sector locally.