Call for Proposals -Fondation Hanns Seidel Retour vers les opportunités

Call for Proposals 

Development of a Digital Service/Database Infrastructure 

1. Project Overview 

We are seeking proposals from qualified service providers for the development of a multidisciplinary digital service, application, software process, or database infrastructure. This initiative builds on the findings of a recent baseline study concerning migration and refugee movements. The project aims to develop a robust, scalable digital platform/service that integrates diverse data sources to provide actionable insights for stakeholders. This project aims at providing a solid foundation for evidence-based policy-making, which will play a key role in addressing the complex challenges of migration and refugee movements in North Africa and beyond. 

The platform/service is intended for a diverse user base, including policymakers in Tunisia, Germany, Europe, and beyond, as well as national and international organizations and local communities. It should be designed with a user-centric, multidisciplinary approach, incorporating artificial intelligence (AI), real-time data, and advanced analytics to offer dynamic solutions to selected migration challenges. 

The project will apply a values-driven approach, considering key questions around the motivations, impacts, and assumptions behind the solution. In developing this platform/service, we will integrate advanced technological solutions with a focus on accountability, ethical AI practices, and cultural awareness. Recognizing the complex dynamics of migration and refugee movements, the project will actively include diverse perspectives in both design and implementation. This approach aims to ensure that the platform/service is not only efficient and scalable but also responsive to the real needs of the communities it serves, supporting long-term sustainability and positive social impact. 

2. Scope of Work 

The project involves the following tasks: 

• Development of Digital Services: Design and implement a prototype of digital services that meet selected data needs identified in the baseline study. 
• Database Infrastructure: Create a centralized prototype database architecture that allows seamless integration of multiple data sources, ensuring data security, scalability, and efficiency. 
• AI and Real-time Data Integration: Incorporate AI technologies and real-time data processing capabilities to enhance the platform’s responsiveness and analytical power. Specific examples include: 

○ Real-time data ingestion and processing using Change Data Capture (CDC) techniques.

○ API integrations to enable seamless communication between disparate software systems.

○ Development of AI models for predictive analysis to forecast migration trends.

○ Use of Natural Language Processing (NLP) to analyze unstructured data for insights into public sentiment and emerging trends. 

○ Event-driven architecture to publish and subscribe to data events in real time.

○ Enhanced personalization and customization using AI-driven tools to tailor functionalities to specific user needs. 

• User Interface/Experience (UI/UX) Design: Develop an intuitive and accessible prototype user interface that accommodates diverse stakeholders, ensuring ease of use and accessibility.
• Pilot Testing and Feedback: Conduct pilot testing with stakeholders, gather feedback, and iterate on the design and functionality to optimize the platform/service before full deployment. 

• Documentation and Training: Provide comprehensive documentation and training for stakeholders on using the platform/service effectively. 

3. Eligibility Criteria 

Applicants must meet the following criteria: 

• Proven expertise in software development, database architecture, and digital service design.
• Experience in integrating AI and real-time data technologies into digital platforms.
• Positive references from previous projects, particularly in the field of migration or data-driven solutions. 
• Capability to deliver high-quality UI/UX designs tailored to diverse user groups. 
• Proficiency in English. 

4. Award Criteria 

Value for money, with a focus on achieving sustainable outcomes, will be a critical criterion in the evaluation process. Proposals should also include strategies for collaboration with other stakeholders and capacity building, ensuring the project contributes to long-term development. Proposals will be evaluated based on: 

• Quality and completeness of the proposal. 
• Cost-benefit ratio and scalability of the solution. 
• Innovativeness and effectiveness of the approach, particularly in using AI and real-time data.
• Time management, flexibility, and adaptability to project changes. 
• Sustainability aspects and potential for long-term impact. 
• Compliance with data privacy, protection, and ethical standards will also be considered in evaluating proposals. 

5. Award Procedure & Contact Information 

For queries and further information, please contact Ms Uta Staschewski, uta.staschewski@fhstu.org. Please submit your proposal, including a detailed description of your approach, a cost breakdown with a total amount inclusive of all taxes and other associated costs, timeline, and references (in English or German), to uta.staschewski@fhstu.org by 10 September 2024. 

Terms of Reference for the Development of a Digital Service/Database Infrastructure 

1. Digital Services Development – Design and implement digital services addressing the identified data requirements. 

• Develop functional specifications based on the baseline study. 
• Implement services for data visualization, reporting, and predictive analytics.
• Integrate AI to enhance decision-making processes. 

Deliverable: Functional prototype digital services implemented and documented, ready for stakeholder testing. 

• Database Infrastructure Development – Create a scalable and secure database infrastructure.
• Design the architecture to support large-scale data integration. 
• Ensure robust security measures and compliance with data protection regulations. 
• Optimize for performance and scalability. 

Deliverable: Comprehensive prototype database infrastructure with full documentation, supporting large-scale data integration and real-time analytics. 

3. AI and Real-Time Data Integration – Incorporate AI and real-time data processing into the platform/service. 

• Develop AI models for predictive analysis and decision support. 
• Integrate real-time data feeds to keep the platform/service updated and responsive. 
• Implement real-time data ingestion and processing using CDC techniques. 
• Utilize API integrations for seamless communication between software systems.
• Employ NLP for analyzing unstructured data and gaining insights. 
• Leverage event-driven architecture for rapid insights and responses. 
• Enhance personalization and customization through AI-driven tools. 

Deliverable: AI-enabled functionalities and real-time data integration, enhancing the platform’s responsiveness and analytical capabilities. 

4. UI/UX Design – Develop an intuitive and user-friendly interface. 

• Design UI/UX prototypes based on stakeholder needs. 
• Conduct usability testing and iterate on designs. 
• Ensure accessibility standards are met. 

Deliverable: User-centric interface design with full accessibility compliance, ready for deployment. 

5. Pilot Testing and Feedback – Test the platform/service with stakeholders and refine based on feedback. 

• Conduct pilot testing sessions with selected stakeholders. 
• Gather feedback and implement necessary changes. 

Deliverable: Refined platform/service based on pilot testing, with documented stakeholder feedback and improvements. 

6. Documentation and Training – Provide comprehensive training and documentation. 

• Create user manuals and technical documentation. 
• Conduct training sessions for stakeholders. 

Deliverable: Complete set of user manuals, technical documentation, and training sessions delivered. 

7. Project Management and Reporting – Ensure timely delivery and coordination of all project components. 

• Maintain regular communication with stakeholders. 
• Provide progress reports and adapt plans as needed. 

Deliverable: Regular progress reports, final project report, and successful coordination of all project elements.