EDS GFS Sign Managed Desktop Services Contract

8th March 2005 – EDS Global Field Services today announced a £15 million seven-year contract with Cheshire County Council to supply its managed desktop services solution, which will deliver procurement, maintenance, deskside and disposal services.EDS GFS’s work with Cheshire Council is a key component of the Council’s innovative approach to outsourcing, developing long-term partnerships to deliver a business led approach to IT.

Under the terms of the deal a framework will be put in place, which allows departments within the council to buy customised ICT services from a vetted supplier, depending on the requirements of the individual user unit.During the life of the Contract, EDS GFS will work with Cheshire County Council towards developing a fully managed desktop service, supporting a growing population of more than 5,000 users, and will be responsible for the supply and maintenance of all of Cheshire County Council’s desktop computer services.The seven-year contract, won through competitive tender, builds on an existing relationship.

In 2002 EDS GFS was awarded the contract to install broadband connectivity for 600 sites throughout the county.The agreement, which will enable Cheshire County Council to move towards a fully supported desktop service infrastructure, specifically addresses an ongoing issue regarding extending the life of public equipment. Under the terms of the Cheshire contract EDS GFS will meet the County Council’s business and technology needs whilst increasing the average life of existing assets by 25 per cent.Stephen Hopson, County ICT Officer, at Cheshire County Council, said: “We are pleased to conclude this deal with EDS GFS as it provides the opportunity to explore alternative value added approaches to improving services to the desktop, which satisfy our business aims and future strategies as a Council.”Peter Gatling, managing director of EDS GFS UK, said: “We are particularly pleased to extend our relationship with Cheshire County Council, who have been assessed as ‘Excellent’ by the Audit Commission.

This is a significant forward-looking contract for EDS GFS. This new arrangement will not only provide a cost effective solution but also deliver an exceptionally high quality service.”