This summary captures the considerations for cyber, digital, data and technology during Local Government Reorganisation.
This webinar from the Cyber, Digital and Technology team at the Local Government Association shared high level findings from a discovery exercise which set out to understand the considerations for cyber, digital, data and technology during Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), including:
- the challenges and opportunities
- the factors that position a council better for ongoing change and transformation
- sector support needs.
The discovery team discussed their main takeaways from the research and the accompanying report.
There was an opportunity for questions at the end which has helped to inform a programme of more specific webinars being developed on different topics such as: cyber security, infrastructure, ERP and data protection, which will include officers from councils sharing their learning.
Watch the webinar recording (YouTube) and read the Q&A transcript below:
Q&A transcript
Q: Until the footprints are agreed, won’t starting the work be hindered?
A: Any work that can be done in existing councils to help prepare such as understanding software, technology, contracts, skills and capabilities, can really help once the decision is made. Early preparation, building understanding and knowledge is beneficial.
Q: What lessons have been learned about archiving, deleting data as authorities come to an end?
A: There is a need to factor in archiving and the associated cost at the beginning to retain data where required for performance reporting and statutory returns for a period. LGR can be used as an opportunity to set and apply data retention policies
Q: Would you suggest ensuring contracts do not end on Day One?
A: Reviewing and aligning contracts is essential to enable delivery of the new council technology strategy and minimise the impact of business-as-usual contract expiry activity.
Q: What specific culture initiatives were undertaken to support the personal change journey?
A: That wasn’t covered in the research but learning has been shared by councils in other LGR webinars: Local Government Transformation Masterclass: Transformation lessons from local government reorganisation | Local Government Association
Q: Do you think that the changes to local and regional structures of the NHS will also impact?
A: That wasn’t covered in the research but is likely to have an impact in terms of alignment and joint working as more is understood about the changes.
Q: How can we balance the pace of innovation with appropriate risk taking e.g. the pace of adopting AI and complex data sharing solutions?
A: Decision-making should involve setting a clear risk appetite and understanding the long-term vision. Transparent governance and ethical frameworks can help manage risks.
Q: Should this opportunity be taken to align better for wider Government initiatives?
A: There are various conversations taking place about how we support wider national digital ambitions following the publication of the Blueprint for Modern Digital Government.
Q: How important are Digital Champions in moving forward?
A: Digital Champions can help develop skills and foster a culture of innovation. They play a crucial role in supporting digital transformation and improving resident experiences.
Q: It would be good to read detailed case studies of recent LGR councils transitioning, finance, HR and other core systems are the LGA planning to capture and share any?
A: Yes, we will continue to add to our case studies available on the website.