The UK government is on a mission to reinvent itself. In a bold move, it’s ditching outdated systems for a digital overhaul. By uniting departments under five powerful programs, the government aims to streamline operations, cut costs, and deliver better services to citizens
A significant shift is underway in UK public sector operations. In 2018, the Government published a policy paper that outlined the importance of departments delivering value and efficiency by moving to cloud-based technology, standardising processes and data across government, meeting end-user needs, and delivering enhanced value for money.
Drawing on the lessons learned from the pandemic, the approach was updated to leverage collective power for greater value and efficiency. It includes a specific focus on departments grouping together to drive greater value from suppliers and ensure they are not competing for the same resources.
The programmes, each with a distinct focus, are designed to encompass a wide range of government functions: the Defence Programme, the Delivery Programme (Synergy), the Overseas Deliveries Programme, the Policy Programme (Matrix), and the HMRC Programme (Unity).
Each programme is tailored to specific operational needs and aims to bring various departments together under a unified technological and operational framework. So, moving forward, most government departments and non-government department bodies will also need to align with one of the five departments, with a goal of having everything in place by 2028.
Preparing for a digital transformation within government operations
The transition to these consolidated programmes is not without its challenges. Government departments and agencies must prepare to align with these new structures, and there is growing pressure on them to do so. This preparation involves extensive data cleansing to ensure the accuracy and usefulness of shared data repositories. Additionally, aligning internal processes with the new shared services model is vital to a smooth transition.
A key trend in this transformation is the move towards standardisation and the adoption of the latest cloud technology. By streamlining processes and adopting cutting-edge technologies, the government aims to improve operational efficiency and service delivery. Thanks to standardised processes, this trend also facilitates easier movement of personnel across departments.
Financial pressures are a driving force behind this strategic shift. The government anticipates significant savings through this consolidation effort, which are crucial in an era of tightening budgets and increasing demand for public services. The National Audit Office underscores the importance of these savings, aligning them with broader fiscal goals.
In addition, improving the experience of both employees and users of government operations and services is central to this strategy. By focusing on user experience, the government expects to increase the uptake of new systems, leading to greater efficiency and economies of scale. Streamlined processes contribute to this improved experience, facilitating more effective service delivery.
An urgent imperative
Given the above challenges and potential benefits, government operations cannot afford to rest on their laurels. However, implementing all these changes cannot be completed overnight. It will take some time, but there is much that government departments need to do to get their processes ready and their data clean before they join the relevant programme.
Departments will need to look for support from suppliers who can help them achieve value and efficiencies today before they move onto a major shared services programme to ensure they can get ahead.
One of the most significant insights from this strategic shift is the need for collaboration across various sectors. Partnerships between consultancies, IT firms, and specialists in fields like HR and payroll are essential because these collaborations bring together diverse expertise, ensuring that the shared services goals are met with the highest level of competency.
A journey towards a unified public sector and a digital government
As we move towards 2028, the UK government’s journey to consolidate its services under these five programmes is a testament to the evolving nature of public administration. This strategy, while challenging, promises a more efficient, user-friendly, and financially sustainable public sector.
The emphasis on technology, standardisation, and collaboration points to a future where public services are more responsive to the needs of the populace. As this journey unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor its progress, adapt to emerging challenges, and ensure that the ultimate goal of improved public service delivery is achieved.
