Platform Validator Agreement

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is inviting suppliers of Platform Validators, (including supporting solutions, operation and maintenance) that enable contactless bankcard transaction processing compliant with bank card scheme Model 2 Transit rules and the collection of ITSO events compliant with ITSO standard 2.1.5 to provide information regarding their latest solutions and capability. At this early stage, TfGM is seeking to gain a greater understanding of the range of infrastructure and related solutions available, and any recent or expected innovation and development that should be considered in a procurement. Since TfGM’s Ticketing Schemes are likely to extend across all potential transport and associated modes including (but not limited to) Light Rail, Bus, Heavy Rail, Active Travel, understanding experience in these areas is welcome. TfGM would also like to consider any other potential options to source and maintain additional infrastructure components that have the capability to read bankcard or ITSO media (such as for example Revenue Inspection Devices and Mobile Hand-Held Ticket issuing devices etc.) and / or the option to provide a QR Code reading capability at each Platform Validator. Potential solutions will work in conjunction with a Contactless Bankcard Middle and Back Office service as well as the Merchant Acquirer and Payment Gateway service that is appointed by TfGM. The Platform Validator infrastructure and supporting service will also need to be capable of reading ITSO media (for both digital and physical media compliant with the latest ITSO 2.1.5 standard). Suppliers are also invited to provide indicative timescales for technical refresh or replacement of TfGM’s current Platform Validator infrastructure as well as any transitional dependencies. Since TfGM already operates a highly successful contactless bankcard transaction processing scheme, supplier consideration of the arrangements to successfully transition from existing to new services, will be key. Please note that TfGM has also issued a Prior Information Notice with regard to a Contactless Bankcard Middle and Back Office.