Project overview
The University of Glasgow engaged PTS to provide independent consultancy to support a large scale network transformation programme.
The University required a comprehensive network strategy, high level target architecture and fully costed business case to modernise its wired and wireless infrastructure across central campus and approximately 20 remote sites. The objective was to create a resilient, secure and future ready foundation of connectivity to support teaching, research, administration and student experience.
PTS was appointed to develop the strategy, design and investment case, and to support procurement of a long term network partner.
Vision
The University’s ambition was to build a modern network capable of delivering non stop services while removing existing single points of failure across technology, processes and people. The new infrastructure needed to support future digital services, pervasive campus connectivity and evolving academic requirements.
A key challenge was the complexity of the estate, including central campus buildings, teaching hospitals, farms and field centres. Legacy infrastructure, multiple contracts and varying service levels required detailed discovery and analysis.
The University also needed a robust, evidence based business case demonstrating value for money and whole life cost over a 10 year investment cycle.
Our Approach
PTS worked collaboratively with the University’s Networks Team to deliver a structured programme of discovery, analysis and procurement support.
During the discovery phase, we reviewed strategies, network diagrams, contracts and service level agreements across both the core university network and school operated networks. This was complemented by interviews with over 60 stakeholders representing teaching, research and administrative functions, ensuring that the future network design aligned with institutional ambitions.
Drawing on sector expertise and knowledge of emerging technologies, PTS developed a comprehensive network strategy supported by eleven core deliverables. These included a high level target architecture for wired and wireless networks, network security, IP address management and network management tools, alongside a Target Operating Model and transition plan.
A detailed whole life budget was produced, incorporating cabling infrastructure, active equipment, security solutions, staffing and operational costs over a 10 year period. This formed the basis of a fully costed and evidenced business case to secure funding approval.
Following approval, PTS supported the procurement process by drafting technical requirements, assisting with Single Procurement Document responses, preparing pricing schedules and evaluating tender submissions. We participated in supplier presentations and consensus scoring sessions, supporting the University in selecting its preferred network partner
Outcomes and benefits
The Smart Campus roadmap has provided University of Glasgow with a clear, structured direction of travel for its digital estate transformation.
Key Outcomes
- A future proof network strategy aligned to academic and operational priorities
- Removal of single points of failure across the estate
- Defined Target Operating Model supporting long term governance
- Comprehensive 10 year whole life cost model demonstrating value for money
- Successful procurement of a network partner to implement the programme
The result is a modern and resilient digital foundation that enhances connectivity, user experience and institutional performance across a complex higher education estate.
Key Stats
Network transformation strategy spanning central campus and 20 remote sites
10 year whole life budget model supporting investment approval
Client testimonial
“PTS was engaged by the University to help at the outset of a large and complex data network transformation. Working collaboratively with the University, PTS’s Consultants provided expert insight and advice to shape the forthcoming Network Programme. We received excellent support throughout the engagement which resulted in hugely positive feedback from our executive governance teams. The Network Programme is successfully moving forward on a solid foundation with the chosen network partner, which is a testament to how integral and valid the design work from PTS remains today.
Mark Johnston
CIO
Alasdair Thomson
Director of Infrastructure and Cloud Services