CSC mines $20m contract win

IT outsourcer Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) has won a $20 million, three-year contract with mining group Xstrata Queensland.

Under the contract, CSC will be responsible for Xstrata Copper's IT, infrastructure and applications including office server management, application support - functional and technical support, application enhancement, desktop and notebook management - as well as LAN and email management.

CSC will also manage the help desk and monitor and resolve any technology issues through its Global Management Centre in Sydney.

Xstrata Copper's general manager, administration and services, John Coldham said the company's aim in outsourcing IT services and support is to achieve ongoing value for the company while building on the existing IT strategy and architecture.

'We wanted to be able to achieve a range of benefits possible from an IT service provider such as CSC, while maintaining an appropriate level of service to users. CSC was selected because of its strong value contribution and its extensive global capability and organisational structure.' he said.

The contract covers Xstrata Copper's Brisbane global headquarters and mines and mineral processing plants in north Queensland, including mines in Mount Isa Mines, Ernest Henry and the Townsville copper refinery.

Application support services will also be provided to Xstrata Coal's Brisbane office and Queensland coking and thermal coal operations in the Bowen Basin at Oaky Creek and the Newlands Collinsville Abbot Point project.

Chief executive for CSC's Australian operations, Mike Shove, believes the contract will be the start of a long-running partnership between the companies.

'We are committed to providing efficient and cost effective IT services and look forward to an ongoing partnership with Xstrata,' Shove said.