NSW Education Standards Authority tenders for Microsoft Dynamics cloud migration

The New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) has launched a tender to migrate its ageing teacher accreditation platform to a modern cloud solution, as part of a broader technology reform initiative to enhance system security and performance.

Qualified vendors are invited to submit proposals for transitioning NESA's on-premises Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2016 system to Dynamics 365 CE Online

The migration represents a critical technology upgrade for the eTAMS portal, which serves as the primary interface for over 180,000 teachers across NSW schools and early childhood services to manage their active accreditations.

"This migration aims to modernise the platform, enhance user experience, and align with organisational goals of scalability, security, and streamlined operations," according to the tender document.

NESA's current system relies on Microsoft Dynamics CRM version 8.2.0.749, which is seven years out of date, and Adxstudio version 7.0.0022, a web portal framework that Microsoft has completely discontinued.

The authority faces a pressing timeline, as Microsoft's extended support for Dynamics CRM will expire on 13 January 2026, creating significant operational risks if not addressed.

The tender outlines several key benefits NESA expects to gain from transitioning to the cloud-based Dynamics 365 CE Online platform.

They include elastic infrastructure to handle increased data volumes, enhanced security features, simplified connectivity with external systems, improved cross-platform compatibility, and automated workflows powered by the Unified Interface.

NESA is seeking vendors with proven experience in CRM migration, strong cybersecurity credentials, and expertise in customised workflows and API integrations.

Successful applicants must be registered providers on the NSW procurement ICT Services Scheme and demonstrate compliance with the state's SME and sustainability guidelines.

The migration project is expected to be completed within six months, with the successful vendor required to migrate all on-premises CRM data, rebuild custom workflows, reconfigure integrations with external systems, and provide comprehensive training and hypercare support.

Deadline for the tender is May 12 with the contract expected to be awarded between June and July 2025.