Ernst Schweizer AG Development of IT Strategy and Evaluation of a Sourcing Partner for IT Infrastructure and Digital Workplaces

Schweizer’s IT department manages the IT infrastructure across all locations in-house. However, the performance of the systems barely meets the users' needs anymore, necessitating a renewal and consolidation of the platforms. Using the ICT Sourcing Target Model and the Metagon cost benchmark study, Metagon conducted a sourcing analysis of the entire IT infrastructure. The analysis showed that outsourcing areas such as client (digital workplaces DWP), shared and basic services, data centres, and networks would lead to sustainable reductions in IT costs while ensuring round-the-clock security of the IT systems. Based on these insights, Metagon was commissioned by Schweizer to evaluate the appropriate sourcing partner through a tender and then assist with project implementation.

Together with Schweizer’s ICT and business departments, Metagon analysed the existing IT infrastructure and the requirements for basic services. To do this, Metagon used the tried-and-tested ICT Sourcing Target Model and leveraged the results of the Metagon cost benchmark study. Metagon then created a detailed Request for Proposal (RFP), which included all sourcing requirements and a price sheet. Instead of submitting a standard offer, the providers were asked to complete and submit this sheet. This not only ensured high cost transparency but also made it easier to compare the various offers. A selection of providers was invited to participate in the RFP. Metagon evaluated the submitted offers and invited three providers to present their solutions in person. Afterward, Schweizer chose the most suitable sourcing partner. Metagon managed the contracting process and supported the transformation and transition until the final handover of operations to the sourcing partner.

Thanks to Metagon’s thorough analysis and structured sourcing process, Schweizer found a sourcing partner who will drive and manage the much-needed consolidation and modernisation of the IT infrastructure. The sourcing process was completed within the allocated budget. The basic IT infrastructure is now safer, more flexible, and more robust. Schweizer’s IT department can now focus on business-relevant applications and drive forward the digitalisation process.