Nr. GLPS06/2024                                                                                                                                   Prishtinë

                                                                                                                                                                   28.10.2028

Call for Applications for the Development of a Mobile Application for iOS and Android

Introduction to CorrWatch

Group for Legal and Political Studies (GLPS), GAP Institute and the Institute for Development Policy (INDEP), with the support of the British Embassy in Kosovo, is implementing the three-year project entitled: “Support for Civil Society to Increase Public Oversight and Accountability of Public Institutions of Kosovo”. This project will focus on five components which include different monitoring processes:

1. Recruitment in public administration;
2. Public procurement and contract management;
3. Distribution of grants and subsidies;
4. Issuance of permits, licenses and fees;
5. Performance and management of public owned enterprises.

The main goal of the project is to provide expertise and continuous support to public institutions to eliminate irregularities and legal violations that may be encountered, so that they can improve them and establish good practices.The overarching methodological goal is to increase civil society oversight role in monitoring government institutions, POEs and independent agencies in several areas, hold them accountable for their actions and foster/initiate incremental changes in the institutional approach.

About Consortium Partners:

Group for Legal and Political Studies is an independent, non-partisan and non-profit public policy organization based in Prishtina, Kosovo. Our mission is to conduct credible policy research in the fields of politics, law and economics and to push forward policy solutions that address the failures and/or tackle the problems in the said policy fields. Through advocating the policy solutions derived from our policy research, we aim to support four fundamental policy developments: a. to support the democratization of the polity with regard to institutional and substantive policy reform; b. to strengthen the rule-of-law capacity and performance via informed policy solutions and practical advocating strategies; c. to enhance the economic growth and development by promoting market strategies that increase the rate of growth and stability, and d. to help improve regional cooperation and Kosovo’s presence at the international level.

GAP Institute for Advanced Studies is a Think Tank established in October 2007 in Kosovo. During these years GAP has been directly involved in many governmental working groups for drafting public policies. A large number of public documents that are implemented today recognize GAP’s contribution and research inputs. During this period GAP has managed to publish more than one hundred different publications; GAP has provided space for research to a large number of professionals coming from different fields; GAP’s publications are among the most cited documents from local media; GAP findings have been cited by international media as well as from scholars whose work focuses on public policies.

The Institute for Development Policy (INDEP) is a think tank and an advocacy centre that provides independent research-based policy solutions. Established in 2011 as an association of policy analysts, researchers and civil society activists, INDEP looks at regional policies, aiming to guide countries of South-East Europe on their path to Euro-Atlantic integration. In Kosovo, where it is based, the institute has a special focus on strengthening democratic governance and plays the role of public policy watchdog. The work of INDEP is guided by the fundamental principles of transparency and accountability. The institute promotes active citizenship and participation in governance, as well as checks and balances between democratically elected institutions.

For more information, please refer to: www.corrwatch.org

Application Description and Objectives

This project aims to design and develop a functional, user-friendly mobile application (further referred to as the ‘app’) for both Android and iOS platforms. The primary purpose of the app is to facilitate the external whistleblowing/reporting of cases within public institutions, providing an accessible and efficient method for whistleblowers to submit information and reports.

The external whistleblowing procedure in the public sector begins with the submission of information to the Agency for Prevention of Corruption (further referred to as the ‘Agency’). Accordingly, any report submitted through the application will be directed immediately to the Agency as confidential information. This ensures that the details remain private and are not disclosed to any third parties, including the app developers and implementing organizations.

More specifically, the app will serve as a vital tool for whistleblowers, enabling them to report or disclose information regarding threats or violations of public interest in the context of their employment in the public sector. The application will prioritize user anonymity and security, encouraging individuals to come forward with information that can contribute to transparency and accountability in public service.

Additionally, the app will include features such as user support, and a section providing resources on rights and protections for whistleblowers. This comprehensive approach aims to create a safe environment for individuals to voice concerns without fear of retaliation, ultimately fostering a culture of integrity and ethical governance within public institutions.

Evaluation Criteria and Required Documents for Applicants (Tech Companies)

Technical Expertise

• Proven experience (a minimum of five (5) years) in mobile app development for both Android and iOS platforms. Familiarity with security protocols and data protection practices.

Previous Work

• Portfolio of similar projects, showcasing functionality, user experience, and design.
• References from past clients, particularly with mobile app development.

Project Management Skills

• Ability to adhere to timelines and milestones.
• Demonstrated capability in agile project management and iterative development.
• Innovative Solutions
• Evidence of innovative approaches to enhancing user experience and engagement within the app.
• Suggestions for additional features that could benefit users while ensuring confidentiality.

Cost Effectiveness

• Competitive pricing model that provides value for the proposed deliverables, in line with the budget available as described below.
• Clear breakdown of costs associated with development, testing, and maintenance.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must submit the following documents as part of their proposal:

1. A comprehensive portfolio showcasing previous mobile app development projects, particularly those relevant to public sector applications or similar functionalities;
2. Two professional references from past clients or partners, preferably from projects that involved mobile app development;
3. Two detailed CVs of key personnel who will be involved in the project, highlighting their relevant experience and qualifications in mobile app development and project management.
4. A copy of the business registration certificate
5. A detailed budget proposal that includes a comprehensive breakdown of all anticipated costs associated with the development of the mobile application. This should encompass development costs, testing and quality assurance, project management fees, maintenance and support, optional enhancements, and miscellaneous expenses.

All documents should be submitted in a clear and organized format to facilitate the evaluation process.

Duties and Deliverables of Both Parties

Company Responsibilities:

• Design and develop the mobile application, ensuring it meets specified functional and aesthetic requirements.
• Conduct rigorous testing to ensure the app’s functionality, security, and user experience.
• Provide regular updates and communicate progress to the project oversight team.
• Deliver the first version of the app by November 21, 2024 for review and feedback.
• Finalize the completed application by December 7, 2024.

CorrWatch Responsibilities:

• Provide clear project specifications and requirements to the tech company.
• Offer timely feedback on the first version of the app to facilitate necessary adjustments.
• Ensure all necessary resources and support are available for the tech company during development.
• Monitor progress against the timeline and assist in resolving any issues that may arise.

Budget

The total maximum amount available is 5000 Euro (gross amount, VAT and/or any type of other taxes/costs included). This amount also includes the fee for maintenance for a period of one (1) year.

Evaluation of Applicants

Applicants will be evaluated by a three-person commission as follows:

• 50% Demonstrated experience and portfolio
• 30% Proposed staff expertise
• 20% Proposed cost

How to apply

Interested candidates are requested to submit by email an electronic copy of their expression of interest/proposal along with the required documents in PDF by November 4, 2024, at 16:00, with the subject “CorrWatch- Mobile Application for iOS and Android for Whistleblowing” to [email protected]