The Department for Transport is to create an open data portal containing information on bus services across the country.
The DfT has issued a contract notice seeking a supplier that can create a portal to be filled with data from local authorities and bus operators throughout England. This will include information on routes, timetables, fares, ticketing options, and punctuality performance, as well as real-time data feeds.
“The portal will be the one-stop-shop for operators of local bus services to index links to data files,” the DfT said. “Third-party developers will then access this data and integrate it with their own journey planning applications.”
The department wishes to create a platform that provides a functioning front end for those using the portal to both upload data and access existing information.
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“Other useful functionality to consider includes data-validation checks and dashboard features to reference status and quality for data publishing,” the DfT said. “Please also consider other useful value-added features as part of your proposal for example tools and training for data publishers.”
The project is currently entering alpha phase, and the department is seeking a supplier to complete this phase over the next 12 weeks. During this phase the winning bidder will be charged with developing and testing prototypes before proposing to the DfT a finished solution, including information on expected costs and challenges.
In the four weeks after the completion of the alpha phase, the supplier will work with the Government Digital Service to put its proposed solution through a service assessment.
The DfT has between £350,000 and £600,000 to spend on the alpha phase of the project, which is estimated to begin on 6 August. During the project the supplier will be expected to be based at DfT headquarters in Westminster two or three days a week.
Bids are open until Tuesday 10 July, after which the department expects to evaluate up to six suppliers.