JISC

The JISC invites tenders to conduct a study of JISC project software outputs which have been or are being used by suppliers (either commercial or not for profit).

The aims of the study are:

• The identification of JISC projects which have produced software outputs that have been or are being used by suppliers.
• Where it is difficult to identify outputs, to explain why project outputs which were developed with a view to being ‘taken up’ by suppliers were not adopted.
• An explanation of how suppliers became involved with these projects and any ongoing management of this relationship, also how the software was licensed to the supplier, i.e. through creative commons or maybe a more commercial licensing model.
• The identification of any common factors amongst these projects and, if possible, a categorisation of distinct pathways which have led to outputs being used by suppliers.
• A description of any benefits that JISC project software outputs have realised for suppliers, with as detailed information on any financial value as possible, where relevant.
• To identify whether an output was ready for take up or whether the supplier had to adapt, develop further and/or commercialise/‘productise’ the output. Identify what further investment of resources was required and what developments or changes were made.
• An analysis/explanation to inform JISC as to how more project software outputs could be attractive to and beneficial to suppliers in the future.

Total funding of up to £30,000 (including VAT and all expenses is available for this work.  Dependent on the findings of the study, there may also be a possibility for the study to secure additional funds if further areas of interest are identified.

The deadline for proposals is 12 noon UK time on Friday 16th October 2009.

A full version of the ITT can be found below.