What's Happening?
Geoscience Australia has entered into a new partnership with Leidos Australia to provide IT services, marking a significant shift in its IT support strategy. The agency signed a $16.6 million contract with Leidos, which will take over from the current provider, Cirrus, whose contract expires in December. Leidos will manage core systems including infrastructure, app support, cloud platforms, network, and cybersecurity, along with helpdesk support. This move is part of Geoscience Australia's broader strategy to enhance its digital and data capabilities by 2028, aiming for a more responsive and resilient IT environment.
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Why It's Important?
The partnership with Leidos is crucial for Geoscience Australia as it seeks to modernize its IT infrastructure and improve data management. By transitioning to a franchise support model, the agency aims to better manage its growing data volumes and adapt to evolving user interactions, including increased use of cloud computing and AI tools. This deal is expected to enhance the agency's ability to handle large datasets, such as its six-petabyte pool of petroleum exploration data, and improve internal accessibility and resilience.
What's Next?
Geoscience Australia will focus on implementing the franchise support model, which involves classifying corporate capabilities into foundational enterprise digital and data services. These will be centrally managed, while specialized science capabilities will be franchised to specific teams. The agency plans to continue its efforts to modernize its storage infrastructure and address ongoing data challenges, as outlined in its corporate plan. The transition to Leidos is expected to facilitate these improvements and support the agency's long-term digital strategy.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift to a franchise support model reflects a broader trend in IT management, where organizations seek to decentralize certain functions to enhance flexibility and responsiveness. This approach may lead to more efficient use of resources and better alignment with specific departmental needs. Additionally, the focus on cloud computing and AI tools highlights the growing importance of these technologies in managing complex data environments.
