Web Development Consultancy

The THE NEAR EAST FOUNDATION (NEF) in USA from Americas region had released this tender for Tenders are invited for Web Development Consultancy for Business E-Networking and E-Commerce (Bilingual (English and Arabic)). The Web Development Consultancy for Business E-Networking and Commerce, Bilingual (English and Arabic) is designing, developing, and rolling out upgrades for NEF’s accessible cloud-based platform (Siraj Market), which aims to support NEF’s inclusive micro/small/medium-enterprise program in Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria by enabling participant businesses to register, validate, and advertise their businesses and available products/services, network with peer businesses (through both the platform and associated communication apps), and, ultimately, interact directly with potential customers. NEF’s micro/small/medium-enterprise program aims at supporting aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to start and grow sustainable businesses through a tailored and holistic approach embedded into NEF’s Siraj platform, including training and access to information via NEF’s Siraj Digital platform (www.sirajdigital.com) and access to finance through our Siraj Finance platform (www.sirajfinance.org). Objectives NEF anticipates the following development needs through September 2023, followed by a maintenance contract. NEF may choose to postpone some of the features. Estimated days of work are provided for reference only and may be adjusted during the final negotiation phase. Platform features: Develop Version 2.0 of the NEF-managed, cloud-based (AWS) online platform, Siraj Market. Version 1.0 of the platform currently delivers primarily business-to-business matchmaking opportunities among a closed group of supported micro/small/medium-enterprises. The services are delivered through a basic web-based version and limited-feature WhatsApp/Telegram-based version. Version 2.0 will have the following functionalities: Upgrade the web-version and develop an open version of Siraj Market with the ability for public viewers to search, sort, filter, and contact participating businesses (registered users) through the platform as well as associated communication apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Telegram). Ability to issue digitally certified validations (e.g., “Trusted Business” certification) for participating businesses (registered users). Ability for basic platform functions to integrate with businesses’ social media pages such as Facebook, Instagram, and other relevant platforms. Upgrade the e-matchmaking feature to be more holistic and comprehensive. Develop a user-generated resources section that is available for registered users. Ability for external businesses to register their interest as suppliers and join the network and be accessible by registered users. Ability to link to payment solutions (e.g., e-wallets such as OrangeMoney in Jordan). Phases: Phase I: Design (Estimated timeframe: 1 month): Design and wireframes developed and finalized with NEF Phase II: Development (Estimated timeframe: 2 months): Development and soft launch Phase III Deployment (Estimated timeframe: 1 month): Deployment and onboarding of NEF staff and a selection of users Platform Maintenance (through May 2024 (TBD); estimated 1-2 days per month plus 10 days for bug fixes): Provide ongoing support and maintenance to ensure the platform is operational. Experience/Qualifications Proven experience in website development, HTML and ASP.NET Proven experience in cloud-based solutions, including preferably using AWS services Proven experience in connectivity integration, including integration with cellular networks (e.g., SMS), mobile communication apps (e.g. WhatsApp), and social media (e.g. Facebook pages), preferably with Twilio experience Proven experience in database development and management, including preferably in MSSQL database coding, querying, upgrade, and maintenance Proven experience in business-to-business and business-to-customer solutions, including preferably proven experience working on enterprise and economic development projects. Familiarity with business-related information management tools and global standards. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Arabic. Familiarity with international data privacy and transfer laws and regulations (e.g., GDPR). How to apply Please apply by submitting the following information on the following Near East Foundation careers page no later than April 28, 2023: https://neareast.bamboohr.com/careers/295 Cover letter outlining all relevant experience and availability. Technical proposal, including workplan broken down by: (a) design; (b) development and soft launch; (c) deployment; and (d) ongoing maintenance and support through May 2024 (TBD). Financial proposal, including estimated costs broken down by: (a) design; (b) development and soft launch; (c) deployment; and (d) ongoing maintenance and support through May 2024 (TBD). Curriculum Vitae of key personnel List of three references from similar projects, including email addresses and telephone numbers. Kindly note only finalists will be contacted. Applicants are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Near East Foundation and its affiliates by visiting the NEF website (www.neareast.org). published on 17 Apr 2023. The tender expired on 28 Apr 2023. This tender is sourced from Official Website and is eligible for suppliers interested in website development. Interested bidders can obtain further information including complete bid documents or ways to participate by registering on Tender Impulse and referencing via Tender Impulse ID 3028060.