BBC announce shortlist of technology bidders

The BBC has announced the second stage shortlist of bidders.
These bidders have been selected to the next round in the procurement process for the new technology services contract for the Corporation, and sale of BBC Technology Ltd. A sale is subject to the approval of the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and the contract is worth up to £2 billion.
Among the shortlist are CSC, Fujitsu, EDS, Capita, Accenture, IBM, Logica and HP.
The move to procure a new technology contract followed an internal strategic review of the BBC’s technology requirements for the next decade. According to the findings of the review, potential annual savings for the BBC of at least £20m were identified if its technology services were outsourced.
The BCB said that combining the procurement with the sale of BBC Technology Ltd, meant that the BBC could maximise value for the corporation whilst continuing to invest more money into its programmes and services.
John Varney, Chief Technology Officer, BBC, commented: “We have received really positive feedback from the market about this deal, and are delighted to be able to announce that our timetable for procurement is on track. During the next phase of the process there will be a rigorous evaluation of not only the technology expertise and operations of these bidders, but their culture and fit with the BBC – this is a crucial part of our negotiations.”
The process for procurement and sale will be conducted in full consultation with the 1400 staff and unions including Bectu who are oposed to the sell-off.
Founded in March 2001, with a turnover of £230 million, BBC Technology Ltd provides products and services for the BBC, other broadcasters, platform owners, content owners and government organisations.
(SP)