Under the terms of the 10-year deal, IBM will install new servers and applications as well as providing consulting services. The contract, part of the Bradford-i project, is aimed at improving the efficiency of key business processes including HR, payroll, accounting, and procurement.
Serco Solutions, formerly ITNet, will act as subcontractor on the deal, providing helpdesk support, network management, desktop services, asset management, and server management.
The Bradford-i program has been dogged by threats of industrial action over reports that the council is planning to cut 40 staff over four years. Following the signing of the deal, the council has promised there will be no compulsory job losses. Instead, IT personnel will have the option to retain their status as council employees while working for Serco. New employees will work for the council for a minimum of three months before being given the option to transfer to the new supplier.
IBM spokesperson Richard Janes told ComputerWire, Staff will not be forced to do anything they don’t want to do.
