Cases

National R&D Cloud Program

Technology Policy R&D Stategy

Context

  • Kanpeki supported an RDI authority in designing a comprehensive program to provide local researchers with access to HPCs, aiming to advance RDI activities, drive growth in breakthrough concepts, and support Saudi Missions

Approach

  • Draft an outline of a digital grants program
  • Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment through market research and expert interviews to evaluate the demand for HPC in Saudi Arabia
  • Benchmark global practices
  • Propose a two-phase high-level outline
  • Analyze vendor capabilities and interview domain experts
  • Develop governance models for Phase 01
  • Build cost models, incorporating both operational and financial feasibility
  • Draft an RFP for Phase 01 to secure cloud HPC services and outline the technical requirements, timelines, and operational expectations
  • Create content for the call for applications
  • Develop instructions for creating an application platform to simplify access for researchers
  • Review applications for Cycle 01 of Phase 01

Outcomes

  • National HPC needs assessment & benchmark
  • Two-phase HPC high-level implementation outline
  • Guidelines for the application website
  • Governance and cost models
  • Vendor RFP