Review of telecommunication services and operations at United Nations Headquarters

The Office of Information and Communications Technology (OICT) of the United Nations seeks an experienced consultancy firm specializing in telecommunications to carry out a study of the current UN voice and data requirements, and existing telecommunications contracts and services. The study will produce a new telecommunication strategy and operation plan to meet the UN’s telecommunication requirements for the next 3-5 years. The UN believes it may not be benefitting from the lowest prices the market can offer for telecommunications services; and as one of the largest global organizations, is interested in optimizing its services and costs. The work will be divided into three phases, needs analysis, assessment and a strategy development. Needs Analysis Phase During the needs analysis phase the consultant will interview key stakeholders in OICT and also members of the user community to determine both short term and long term telecommunications needs. The scope of work will cover all voice and data technologies, infrastructure, and telecom services used by the UN at its headquarters in NY (UNHQ). The scope of work will not include locations outside of NY. Network scope of work will include all networks (LAN and WAN) contained inside UNHQ and the segments of any global WAN that connect to UNHQ. Consultant will deliver a full requirements document detailing all needs determined during the course of their analysis. Assessment Phase During the assessment phase the consultant will establish a clear understanding of the current telecommunications services and systems at UNHQ. The assessment will include a review of existing contracts with suppliers; network configuration and topology; telecommunications security; systems and services; usage and billing; and tools and processes for network, expense and supplier management. Following technologies and services will be covered: • LAN • Voice and Mobile communications • VOIP • WAN – T1, T3, MPLS, Leased Lines, SONET, OC circuits • IP Video Conferencing, IPTV • Remote Access • VPN The assessment phase will produce a report detailing the consultant’s findings including the actual usage of services and networks, current costs and rate structures; key suppliers and service providers; current issues and risks; and policies and controls. Strategy Development Phase The Strategy Phase will deliver a report and a set of recommendations for a new telecommunications strategy that will meet the service and operational requirements identified in the needs analysis report. The report will identify: gaps in capabilities, areas of improvement, cost savings strategies, operational changes, and new technologies to be implemented. In addition the report will detail a strategy and recommendations for meeting short term and long term goals including a timeline and implementation plan. The report will also identify best of breed vendors for the required services and systems. Duration and Location The work is estimated to be completed in 6 months. Consultants must be able to meet with UN staff at UN Headquarters in New York.