I. Background The Ocean Connector is an interactive, web-based platform developed under the UN Ocean Decade to facilitate collaboration and information sharing among partners, institutions, and stakeholders engaged in capacity development initiatives. The platform enables registered users to upload, manage, and promote training opportunities, workshops, and other capacity development activities. Built using full-stack web development, Ocean Connector combines a responsive frontend interface with a structured backend administration system that supports user authentication through OceanExpert, activity management, automated notifications, and database-driven workflows. The system is hosted on the IODE server and functions as a secure, closed-access environment managed by the IOC Secretariat. The development of the platform has been an iterative process involving close collaboration with partners and the IOC Secretariat. As the first platform of this level of interactivity and capacity development functionality within IOC, several technical and functional needs emerged during testing and rollout. Additional specialized services are now required to complete final system refinements, strengthen the platform’s stability, and support the transition to in-house maintenance. II. Scope of work, purpose & responsibilities of the proposed work The objective of this assignment is to provide specialized full-stack development services to complete, test, and stabilize the Ocean Connector platform. The selected service provider will ensure that the platform operates securely and reliably, finalize new user-engagement and automation features, and support the early monitoring and maintenance phase following rollout. 1. Monitoring and Stabilization Attachment A – Terms of Reference (TOR) Reference Page 4 of 9 • Monitor platform performance during the initial rollout phase and address technical issues that may arise. • Conduct debugging, performance optimization, and system testing to ensure stability and responsiveness. • Implement immediate fixes for backend or interface issues affecting user experience. 2. Development of Subscription and Communication Features • Design and develop a new subscription functionality that enables users and partner organizations to follow selected programmes or activities and receive updates on newly published opportunities. • Configure and test the feature to ensure that users can easily subscribe, manage preferences, and unsubscribe when desired. • Integrate the subscription module with the existing database and authentication system to ensure data consistency and secure access control. • Implement automated notification logic to send relevant updates (e.g., new opportunities, changes to subscribed items) to users/partners. • Conduct user testing to validate usability and performance prior to deployment. 3. System Enhancement and Optimization • Complete and refine additional functionalities identified through consultations with IOC focal point, including: o Directory feature for IOC platforms to improve navigation. o Preview access to selected Capacity Development activities without login. o Request functionality workstream to be streamlined. o Backend architecture adjustments to support new frontend features. o Additional opportunity management functions to improve efficiency. o Conduct full usability and integration testing before release.