Must-know ICT and government terminology

Software tools or platforms that are designed to manage the process of hiring new employees. These systems may include features for job posting, candidate screening, resume management, interview scheduling, and communication with candidates. Recruitment systems can be standalone software applications or they may be integrated with other HR software solutions, such as applicant tracking systems (ATS) or human resource information systems (HRIS).

Areas outside major metropolitan cities. These areas may have smaller populations and less access to resources and services than urban areas. In government policy and planning, regional areas may be given special attention and support to address the unique needs and challenges faced by these communities.

Registration of Interest (ROI) is a type of procurement process where potential suppliers or contractors are invited to indicate their interest in bidding for a particular project or opportunity. In an ROI process, potential suppliers are typically asked to provide basic information about their company, capabilities, and experience, as well as their interest and willingness to participate in the tender process. This information is used by the buyer to shortlist potential suppliers and determine whether to proceed with a formal procurement process such as a Request for Tender (RFT) or Request for Proposal (RFP).

Technology that is designed to assist organisations in meeting their regulatory compliance obligations. It uses advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence to analyse regulatory data and provide insights into regulatory compliance issues. The term can also be used to refer to government processes that facilitate automated compliance, such as Rules-as-Code. Regtech is becoming increasingly important in the public sector as governments seek to improve their compliance with regulations and reduce the costs associated with compliance.

A Request for Information (RFI) is a formal process used to gather market intelligence and supplier capabilities before issuing a formal Request for Tender (RFT). It is a preliminary request used to identify and shortlist potential suppliers who have the capability to meet the buyer's requirements. An RFI typically contains information about the buyer's needs, objectives and any technical requirements. Suppliers are invited to provide information on their capabilities and how their solutions may meet the buyer's needs. The information collected during an RFI can be used to refine the requirements for a subsequent RFT.

A Request for Information is a buyer's way of testing the market before proceeding to a full Request for Tender (RFT). In an RFI, the buyer will lay out its broad requirements and asks for suggestions from vendors as to which of their products or services could most effectively fulfil them. Responding to an RFI generally does not commit the vendor to any future participation in the project, though it may be viewed as an indication that the vendor is interested in being involved in it in future.

A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a procurement document used by organisations, including government agencies, to solicit proposals from potential suppliers to provide goods or services. An RFP typically provides detailed specifications, requirements, and evaluation criteria for the desired goods or services. Suppliers respond with a proposal that outlines how they will meet the requirements and criteria set out in the RFP. The procurement process for an RFP is typically competitive, and the evaluation of proposals often involves a scoring or weighting system based on the evaluation criteria outlined in the RFP.

A Request for Quotation (RFQ) is a procurement document used by organisations to solicit bids from potential suppliers/vendors for goods or services. An RFQ typically includes a detailed description of the requested goods or services, the quantity required, the delivery or performance schedule, and any other important information or specifications. Vendors respond to an RFQ by submitting a quote or bid outlining their proposed price and terms for fulfilling the requirements outlined in the document. RFQs are often used for purchases of low to medium value and complexity.

A type of procurement process used when the government needs to engage a service provider to deliver a specific service, such as consulting, maintenance, or support services. The process typically involves publishing a Request for Tender (RFT) or a Request for Quote (RFQ) that outlines the requirements for the services to be provided, the evaluation criteria, and any other conditions or specifications.

A Request for Tender (RFT) is a formal invitation to suppliers to submit a detailed written proposal to supply goods, services or works. The RFT document sets out the requirements, specifications, and evaluation criteria that the government agency is seeking, as well as the terms and conditions of the tender process.