Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) today announced that it has been selected as a key IT Solutions and Systems Integration (SI) Framework partner to provide a wide range of SI services to Network Rail, the UK’s leading rail infrastructure provider.
Through the SI Framework, Cognizant will support Network Rail in implementing improvements in the way the company operates a number of its core information management functions and processes, including reliability of the infrastructure and performance. Through this partnership, Network Rail will exploit the right tools, technology and information to better align with wider external industry stakeholders in transforming the rail industry through a period of unprecedented growth in demand and investment in the nation’s railway infrastructure. Network Rail anticipates investing in more than 500 initiatives, driving greater business value from technology during the four years of the SI Framework partnership.
The scope of the partnership ranges from infrastructure to enterprise IT functions. Cognizant will be integral to the management of the entire supply chain, collaborating within Network Rail’s internal organization to ensure knowledge sharing, smooth transition and innovation. In addition, Cognizant will be required to efficiently and effectively implement IT solutions as a lead supplier, priming, where appropriate, other market suppliers and solution providers.
By selecting Cognizant to provide SI solutions, Network Rail’s Information Management service will be able to focus on core activities—analyse business challenges and potential benefits, articulate roadmaps that mesh with business strategy, and facilitate the strengths of the supplier base in delivering new solutions, upgrades and enhancements.
“Cognizant is excited to partner with Network Rail and provide leadership to this extensive programme over the next four years,” said Rohit Gupta, Head of Cognizant’s Manufacturing, Energy and Transportation practice in the UK. “Over the next 30 years, passenger demand for rail will more than double and freight demand is expected to go up by 140 percent. To meet this ever-growing need, we will closely collaborate with Network Rail and ensure that their IT systems are future-ready.
“In Cognizant, Network Rail has found a trusted partner with a proven track record of implementing IT and SI solutions that deliver the best value to meet the company’s business requirements and customer expectations. By optimising technology investments and driving innovation and business transformation, we shall help Network Rail run better and run differently,” added Gupta.
