RFP: Public Art Map Developer
Applications closed
Request for Proposals
Public Art Map Developer
Introduction
Calgary Arts Development Authority Ltd. (CADA) is seeking proposals from qualified developers to create an interactive map showcasing public art in Calgary. This project aims to enhance the visibility and accessibility of public art throughout the city, providing an educational, user-friendly and interactive digital platform for residents and visitors alike.
About Calgary Arts Development
- Vision: A creative, connected Calgary through the arts where everyone is empowered to live a creative life.
- Mission: The arts have the power to create vibrant communities and bring together diverse voices and perspectives. We support artists in the development of their skills and the expression of their creativity. Calgary Arts Development supports and strengthens the arts to benefit all Calgarians.
We acknowledge that the land we gather on, Mohkinsstsis, is the ancestral territory of the Siksikaitsitapi — the Blackfoot people — comprising the Siksika, Kainai and Piikani Nations, as well as Treaty 7 signatories, the Tsuut’ina Nation and the Îyârhe Nakoda Bearspaw, Chiniki and GoodStoney First Nations. Today this land is home to the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Districts 5 and 6 as well as many First Nations and Inuit from across Turtle Island.
We acknowledge that there has been art, music, dance, storytelling and ceremony on this land since time immemorial and it is in the spirit of this land and its people that we do our work.
Background
In March 2021, The City of Calgary announced Calgary Arts Development as the future steward and operator for Calgary’s public art program. As the city’s arts development authority, Calgary Arts Development is uniquely positioned to deliver and create a future public art program built upon our knowledge of, and strong relationships in, the arts community.
What we often think of when we say the words “public art” is large-scale iconic sculptures. However, public art has evolved and includes so much more. At its core, public art is working with an artist and a community to realize ideas in public space. The resulting artwork can be interactive; it can make use of digital technology; it can be temporary; it can be functional; it can be social; it can be a living artwork such as a garden — the possibilities are endless.
Project Description
The public art map will serve as a comprehensive digital guide to public art in Calgary, featuring locations, descriptions, images, artist information and multimedia content, as well as the functionality for moderated user-generated content. The platform should be accessible as a web app via desktop and mobile devices, offering a seamless user experience. The expected completion date for this project is April 2025.
Desired map features include:
- Artwork information and images
- Multimedia content (audio, video, etc.)
- Ability to link to external sites
- Search and filter functions
- Interactive interface (easy navigation with zoom and pan functionalities)
- Location and navigation services
- Geofencing
- Accessibility options (e.g., text-to-speech, screen readers, high contrast mode, image descriptions, translation to other languages, etc.)
- Tours (e.g., self-guided, make-your-own)
- Shareable on socials
- Offline access
- User-generated content (UGC)
- User uploads of artworks (images, artwork information, location)
- Comments / likes / reviews
Scope of Services Required
The vendor is expected to provide the following services:
- Platform Development: Develop an interactive map accessible on both desktop and mobile devices.
- Content Integration: Populate the platform with initial content provided by Calgary Arts Development, including images and metadata.
- Content Management System (CMS): Implement a user-friendly CMS for easy updates and maintenance.
- Search and Filter Functions: Enable users to search and filter art by various criteria (e.g., artist, medium, community, project).
- User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX): Design an intuitive and visually appealing UI/UX.
- Multimedia Integration: Incorporate photos, videos and audio descriptions for each artwork.
- Interactive Features: Include features such as geolocation, make-your-own tours and social sharing options.
- User-Generated Content: Develop functionality for users to upload new artworks with images and descriptions and tag their location. Implement moderation tools to manage user-generated content.
- Accessibility: Ensure the platform is accessible to all users, adhering to WCAG 2.1 guidelines.
Deliverables
- Fully functional interactive map platform.
- Comprehensive user guide and documentation.
- Training for Calgary Arts Development staff on CMS usage.
- Ongoing technical support and maintenance for a period of two years with the option for extension.
Submittal Requirements
- Cover Letter: Company/Individual details, understanding of services, commitment and proposal summary.
- Statement of Work: Description of how services will be provided, including a proposed design and user experience, and approach to UGC and moderation.
- Technical Approach: Outline of technical approach, including the technologies and frameworks to be used.
- Pricing: Detailed budget breakdown, including costs for development, design, testing, deployment, staff training and ongoing support. All prices must be provided in Canadian dollars.
- Previous Work: Examples of similar projects completed, with references.
Selection Criteria
- Experience and Qualifications: Proven experience in developing interactive maps or similar digital platforms.
- Technical Competence: Demonstrated understanding of the project requirements and technical expertise.
- Design and UX: Quality of proposed design and user experience.
- User–Generated Content: Feasibility and functionality of approach to UGC and moderation.
- Budget: Reasonableness and transparency of the budget.
- References: Positive feedback from previous clients.
Calgary Arts Development reserves the right to request additional information or clarifications from potential vendors, and to negotiate terms and conditions. Calgary Arts Development is not obligated to accept any proposal or to award the contract to the lowest bidder.
RFP Timeline
- August 1, 2024: RFP release date
- September 12, 2024 at 5pm MT: Clarifying questions due
- September 26, 2024 at 5pm MT: Deadline for proposals
- October 16 – 25, 2024: Interviews
- November 8, 2024: Selection announcement
Contact
Proposals and questions regarding this RFP should be submitted to Caroline Loewen, Public Art Project Lead, at caroline.loewen@calgaryartsdevelopment.com.
