Decision - Voice and Unified Communications Services Procurement

(1)               That the procurement of Services (Voice and Unified Communications and Collaboration), consisting of Annual Maintenance and Support, Supplies and Services, to replace the existing voice element of the current VMB contract which expires in 2013 be approved; and

(2)               That the Director of Finance be granted delegated authority to award a 3-year Voice and Unified Communications Services contract(s), with an option to extend for up to 2 years (3+1+1).

Voice and unified communications services are essential to the Council’s daily business, and are also key access channels. Procurement of the contract(s) as proposed assures the availability of the tools and functions used by staff and customers, and supports business continuity across the Council’s services.

Do nothing:  This is not considered a viable option as the council must maintain voice services for staff and provide voice based customer channels.

Further extension of existing contract:        There is no provision for further extension of the contract with VMB and it no longer offers best value for money.