Data Services for REF 2029

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029 team seeks a provider to provide research output data, metadata and related services required for REF 2029. The service must integrate with REF 2029 submission and assessment systems and support classification, validation, assessment allocation and audit of submitted outputs.

REF 2029 is expected to handle a volume of research outputs comparable to REF 2021 (approximately 200,000 outputs). The requirement is therefore for a robust, automated and scalable service covering bibliographic matching, metadata provision, citation data, provision of versions of record, and associated support for audit and eligibility checking.

The REF is the system for assessing research excellence in UK higher education institutions. The next exercise will conclude in 2029.

REF 2029 submissions will be made to up to 34 units of assessment and assessed by expert sub-panels using peer review. Submission components include research outputs, disciplinary-level evidence statements, impact case studies and environment information.

The services will support two operational phases: the submission phase, in which outputs are classified and validated, and the assessment phase, in which outputs are allocated to reviewers, supporting materials are supplied, and audit analysis is undertaken.

Through this notice, the Buyer is seeking to understand the current market's capability and appetite in relation to the requirement.

• Assess whether suppliers can deliver the requirement and to identify suitable framework and relevant lot.
• Determine the level of supplier interest in bidding should a formal tender be issued.
• Help the Buyer to understand indicative costs and approaches available within the market.
• Gather market insight to support the refinement and development of the specification and procurement strategy.

Suppliers are invited to provide information on their capabilities, proposed approach, and any considerations that may assist the buyer in shaping the future tender requirement.

To Access the full specification draft document which provide further details on the requirement, please contact ddatprocurement@uksbs.co.uk, referencing DDaT26374- Data Services for REF 2029 pre market engagement so that we can issue you the Document together with the Validation Questions.

Within the RFI Document it details the indicative timelines for the procurement process.

Please note that the route to market remains undecided at this stage. It is expected that this pre-market engagement will provide valuable insights to help determine the most appropriate route to market.