Mobile Data Collection Platform.

Iarnród Éireann (IÉ) is seeking a partner to implement a range of field work management applications with a data collection system at its core. It is planned to implement the system with approximately 500 users, initially. The core system will link to SAP, SharePoint and other IT systems using a-synchronous connections (via API), and will initially be focused on 6 elements: i. Work Order Management Application; ii. Data Collection Tools; iii. Form Creation; iv. Lone Work Systems; v. GIS and GPS Navigation System; vi. Service Level Agreement. IÉ requires that this Mobile Data Collection Platform will be flexible enough to be applied to a number of field data collection business processes in various areas of the organisation.The current contract with AMT Sybex is set to expire on January 22, 2025. At tender stage in 2017 it was considered that a seven-year term would be sufficient as it was anticipated that the mobile data collection functionality would be incorporated into other enterprise-wide systems during the term of the contract, negating the need for a separate standalone platform. However, while it is still intended to incorporate this functionality into a separate enterprise solution (e.g. as part of the proposed SAP upgrade), since this system is core to the IÉ Asset Management System and is also utilised by IÉ Safety Teams across the organisation, continuity of service is required. The integration of Fieldreach into IÉ's operations has been extensive, with the platform being deeply embedded in engineering workflows and asset management activities. Transitioning to a new provider at this stage would introduce significant technical and economic challenges: • Technical Complexity and Integration Costs: The integration of Fieldreach with IÉ’s SAP ECC system and other critical business processes was a highly customized and iterative process. A new provider would necessitate substantial redevelopment and re-integration, leading to high costs and potential disruptions in service. If a new system was to be procured, an alternative integration layer between SAP and the new tool would have to be designed, built and tested. This would require resources from GITT, IÉ technical staff and a third party integration partner. It is anticipated that the costs associated with these works would be in the region of €1M (excl. VAT). Further additional duplication of costs and risk would be incurred by transferring data from the current suppliers’ servers to those of a new supplier. • Operational Disruption: Adopting a new platform would require extensive retraining of approximately 800 users. This transition period could significantly impact productivity and the efficiency of our maintenance and asset management activities, risking compliance and operational integrity. On the basis of the above and based on the substantial technical and economic implications, IÉ is seeking approval to conclude negotiations with AMT Sybex with a view to extending the term of this contract for a further period of up to 5 years up to January 2030, during which, it is anticipated the platform will be phased out as IÉ transitions to another enterprise solution. By extending the contract with AMT Sybex, IÉ can ensure the continuity of critical asset management operations, avoid unnecessary disruptions, and maintain operational efficiency. The continuation of the current platform will facilitate a seamless workflow for our staff and uphold the standards of our asset management processes.