Published date: 14 November 2025

Open early engagement - This means that a procurement idea is currently active, it is in the early stage of development and judging interest from potential suppliers.


Closing date: 1 December 2025

Contract summary

Industry

  • Software package and information systems - 48000000

  • IT services: consulting, software development, Internet and support - 72000000

Location of contract

m139pl

Procurement reference

2025/3318/SASL/CH/AC

Published date

14 November 2025

Closing date

1 December 2025

Contract is suitable for SMEs?

Yes

Contract is suitable for VCSEs?

Yes

Description

The University of Manchester currently holds licences for a statistical and scientific analysis tool, which can create high-quality scientific graphs. Rising licensing costs and evolving usage requirements necessitate a review of existing arrangements and potential alternatives. This project will engage with a partner to explore cost reduction strategies, licence optimisation, and potential software transitions, with academic consultation and product ownership as central components.

The University of Manchester no longer meets the criteria of a 'body governed by public law' and is therefore not considered a contracting authority for the purposes of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and/or any replacement legislation. As a result, the University of Manchester will no longer be subject to the regime contained in The Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and/or any replacement legislation with effect from 1 August 2023. However, as an institution founded for the public good, an exempt charity and an organization in receipt of public funds, the University has a duty to manage expenditure in an appropriate manner and aims to deliver value for money across its non-pay spend by adhering to good procurement practice

More information

Additional text

Information, formalities and necessary requirements to be met will be set out in the procurement documents, all of which are freely available via the University's procurement portal In-Tend - https://in-tendhost.co.uk/manchesteruniversity

Please note - This process is not a formal request for bids. The RFI may ask for prices/costs but this is for information purposes only at this stage. The publication of this RFI does not commit the University to any procurement.

How to apply

Follow the instructions given in the description or the more information section.

About the buyer

Address

The University of Manchester
MANCHESTER
M139PL
England

Telephone

01612758857

Email

procurement@manchester.ac.uk