Title
AUTHORIZATION FOR THE NORMAN UTILITIES AUTHORITY TO PURCHASE SUPERVISORY CONTROL AND DATA ACQUISITION (SCADA) SOFTWARE FROM GRAY MATTER SYSTEMS, L.L.C., IN THE AMOUNT OF $37,712.08 FOR THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT.
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BACKGROUND: In FYE 2018 funds were budgeted to replace the Water Treatment Division reporting software. The new software facilitates and organizes the daily collection of process data by the SCADA (Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition) system, from online process controls, Operators and Laboratory personnel. The new software will provide the following capabilities:
• Automated and manual reports used for the Monthly Operating Report (MOR) to the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ)
• Quality control reports for both internal and public reporting
• Distribution quality control and demand data
• Well usage and capacity reports
• Miscellaneous reports for the Division
The current software was originally installed in the late 1980s. It has reached the end of its useful life and requires replacement in order to provide both the functionality and security needed by the Division. Information Technology Division staff reviewed and collaborated on the specifications and requirements for the new software.
DISCUSSION: A Request for bids was sent out to vendors that can supply reporting software for use in public utilities. Requirements included but were not limited to the following: compatibility to existing software and hardware; must operate without internet access; user entry audit trail; preference for mobile device web compatibility; and customer satisfaction.
The cost for the software, installation, training, a development of the MOR, and one year support were requested. Two vendors responded to the request. Although pricing from both vendors was very competitive, one vendor required a yearly subscription and internet access for use of a portion of their software. This cost made the other vendor a better choice for the division. Staff selected Dream Reports, proposed by Gray Matter Systems L.L.C., to replace the software currently in use by the Water Treatment Division. The software provides all the required features and the best value of the bids received.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the purchase of the software and installation and set-up service from Gray Matter Systems L.L.C. Funding is available in Water Treatment Plant Improvements, Construction (031-9939-462.61-01, Project WA0249) in the amount of $37,712.08.