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TO: Mayor Thomas J. Weisner
FROM: James Dahl, MIS Director
DATE: January 29, 2014
SUBJECT:
Resolution to approve a Professional Services contract with Merrimac Solutions, Inc. for technology staff augmentation for the Information Technology (IT) Division.
PURPOSE:
Due to the diverse and high level of workload faced by the IT Division contracted support is often required. This agreement allows for contracted services for "specialized" skill sets that may not be readily available in-house. In addition, it authorizes the city to place a full-time Help Desk Technician on contract, which will lead to significant savings for the City.
BACKGROUND:
It has been determined that a hybrid of internal and contracted MIS Help Desk positions will lead to higher efficiencies, as well as cost savings. This concept was tested during the 3rd quarter of 2013. In September of 2013, Merrimac Solutions was contracted to provide Help Desk services, and the outcome was successful. Continuation of the contract was contingent upon 2014 funding, and City Council approval.
DISCUSSION:
Approval of this professional services agreement will benefit the City through increased efficiencies and cost savings.
Efficiencies:
In 2013, the MIS Division received over 1,600 support requests (does not include calls where the issue is resolved quickly). This equates to roughly 133 requests per month. During the 3rd quarter the contracted position handled 135 requests, which freed up the time of higher paid IT staff to focus on larger high-end projects.
The contract also calls for higher end consulting at a rate of $150.00 per hour. This rate is well within the market range for such services. Merrimac has been used on specialized projects and has proven to be efficient, knowledgeable, and highly responsive.
Costs:
The contracted Help Desk will have a 2014 cost of $52,000.00. This leads to a savings of approximately $24,000.00.
Funding for th...
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