Approach the Market (ATM) for the provision of e-serial publication subscriptions for the library.
Tender ID: 595672
Tender Details
Tender Description
This Approach to Market (ATM) is for the provision of access to e-Serial publications and related services to support the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s ongoing information needs. This procurement seeks to ensure continued access to a wide range of digital serial publications, managed centrally by the H.V. Evatt Library, and delivered securely to DFAT personnel across domestic and international locations.
Scope:
DFAT seeks to engage supplier(s) capable of delivering e-Serial publications that are:
• accessible online and/or downloadable digital formats.
• Compatible with DFAT’s IT environment and its security protocols.
• Flexible in subscription models (e.g., perpetual, annual, concurrent, enterprise).
• Scalable to accommodate changes in publication needs over time.
Service delivery requirements
Suppliers must be able to:
• Provide secure access to e-Serials via preferred authentication models (SAML 2.0/OpenAthens and IP authentication), with optional username and password (including multifactor authentication) access if required.
• Offer secure online portal for browsing, ordering and managing subscriptions.
• Ensure compatibility with DFAT’s standing operating environment (Microsoft Windows, Edge Browser).
• Deliver content in accessible formats (e.g., HTML, PDF) without DRM restrictions and conflict with DFAT’s firewall and IT policies.
• Support access via desktop and mobile devices, including optional app-based access.
• Ensure availability of services 24/7, with minimal downtime and clear communication protocols for outages or upgrades.
• Provide search and browse functionality, full-text access, and the ability to download, print, and cite resources in accordance with copyright law.
• Provide content on demand for information resources not included in paid content. Preference may be given to prepaid bundle of resources.
Platform requirements:
The e-serial access platform must:
• Be fully web-based and accessible via standard internet browsers.
• Comply with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 and W3C web standards.
• Avoid reliance on client-side software installations, executable files, or DRM-protected content that requires plugins.
• Not to use ActiveX controls or commercial advertising (please note: if ActiveX is used, it must be digitally signed using a DFAT-compliant certificate).
• Ensure all JavaScript is secure and does not pose a threat to DFAT networks.
• Encrypt all data transport (e.g., via HTTPS), and ensure cookies (if used) are encrypted, with most expiring within 24 hours.
• Be accessible to remote users across a wide range of browsers and devices without requiring additional software installations.
• Be hosted on infrastructure with sufficient capacity and bandwidth to support DFAT’s user base and ensure consistent performance and accountability.
It is preferable that the e-serial access platform:
• Maintain a lightweight digital footprint to support fast access for all users.
• Support watermarking of exported or printed files while preserving user anonymity.
Training and support
Suppliers should provide:
• Training for DFAT library staff and end-users, including tutorials, guides, and promotional materials.
• Technical support via email and helpdesk, with a maximum response time of one working day.
• Assistance with implementation and ongoing use of the ordering portal and access platform.
Other Instructions:
Conditions for Participation:
Refer to the Approach to Market
Timeframe for Delivery:
Refer to the A.A.2(e) of the Approach to Market
Address for Lodgement:
Electronic lodgement via AusTender at www.tenders.gov.au
Location
New South Wales : Central West : Far North Coast : Far West : Hunter : Illawarra : Mid North Coast : Murray : New England : Orana : Riverina : Southern Highlands : Sydney
Queensland : Cairns & Far North Queensland : Gladstone : Mackay Whitsunday Region : Mount Isa & North West Region : Rockhampton : South East Queensland : South West & Darling Downs : The Central West : Townsville : Wide Bay Burnett
Victoria : Barwon South West : Gippsland : Grampians : Hume : Loddon Mallee : Melbourne
South Australia : Adelaide : Eyre & Western : Far North : Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island : Limestone Coast : Murray & Mallee : York & Mid North
Northern Territory : Barkly : Big Rivers : Central Australia : East Arnhem : Greater Darwin : Top End
Australian Capital Territory
Tasmania
Outside Australia