Bulk storage replacement

Concepts

• stockport
• computer equipment
• ukbb
• petabyte level storage system
• computer storage units
• new set of storage systems
• bulk storage replacement
• replacement
• uk biobank
• identical ddn exascaler appliances

Location

Oxfordshire

Description

UK Biobank (‘UKBB’) is issuing this tender to invite Bids for a replacement to its existing Petabyte level storage system. The system hosts a data repository and consists of three identical DDN EXAScaler appliances, each sited in a different location. Whilst the appliances have performed well, they are approaching end-of-life and need to be replaced. Consequently, UKBB is seeking to procure a new set of storage systems capable of hosting the repository for at least the next 5 years.

Total Quantity or Scope

The proposed solution must consist of identical, standalone systems. The ability of the systems to store a large volume of data is essential. Whilst most files comprising the data are typically a few hundred MB in size, the total number of files mean each system must offer a minimum usable capacity of 1.5 Petabytes. Whilst the performance demands on the systems will not be high, the systems must meet certain criteria in respect of size, connectivity, and operational standards. In particular, each system must be no more than 20U in height and fit into a standard rack with an external width of 60cm and external depth of 120cm deep. The systems should be easy to use and include features that allow for file recovery, event notification, and reporting. The existing appliances are covered by support until 30 November 2023. Consequently, all purchased systems need to be installed, commissioned, and handed over to UKBB in advance of this date. Following installation and commissioning, a 5-year service support contract is required for each of the systems.

Award Detail

Renewal Options

UKBB are considering two design options. The first option is to purchase two new systems only, with one system hosting a master copy of the data and the other handling download requests. The second option is to purchase three new systems and replicate the existing configuration. UKBB reserves the right to decide the number of systems that will be purchased.

Award Criteria

CPV Codes

• 30230000 - Computer-related equipment
• 30233100 - Computer storage units
• 51611100 - Hardware installation services

Indicators

• Options are available.
• Award on basis of price.

Other Information

UK Biobank reserves the right to discontinue or delay the procurement process and may decide not to award a contract as a result of this call for competition. UK Biobank shall not be liable for any costs or expenses incurred by any organisation in considering and/or responding to the procurement process. Tenders and supporting documents must be priced in pounds sterling and all payments made under the contract will be in pounds sterling, unless otherwise advised. UK Biobank has obligations under the UK General Data Protection Regulation and to its stakeholders to ensure that its information is stored, transmitted and processed securely, with appropriate organisational and technical measures in place. UK Biobank must also take reasonable steps to ensure that information it shares continues to be protected with adequate security. These requirements represent a generic level of security standards for data storage, retrieval and usage that suppliers and partners of UK Biobank must comply with. The estimated contract value for the initial purchase of 1 system may be in the range of 450,000 – 550,000 GBP, but it is not possible to provide an overall maximum estimated value for the contract. However, based on the initial purchase above, and whilst recognising the value may vary, the overall maximum value for the purchase of 1 system if the contract lasts for the full 5 year period could be in the range of 850,000 – 900,000 GBP. UK Biobank will incorporate a standstill period at the point the decision in relation to the award of the contracts is notified to bidders. The standstill period, which will be a minimum of ten (10) calendar days, provides time for unsuccessful bidders to lodge an appeal in regards to the award decisions, before the contracts are entered into. Suppliers are advised to allow adequate time for uploading documents and to dispatch the electronic response well in advance of the closing time to avoid any last minute problems. (MT Ref:230643)