Decision details

Matter for Decision

      i.         This report presents the Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) Strategy 2024-2029 for approval, which sets out the Council's vision and framework for effectively managing digital, data and technology over the next five years. For clarity, this is an internal (not public facing) technical strategy and does not relate to the 3C ICT Service Review.

    ii.         Customers are placed at the heart of this Strategy. A key component of the Strategy is the digital customer journey which focusses on improving both user experience and accessibility for our customers, where those who can engage digitally, choose to do so because it is more convenient and preferable to other alternatives.

   iii.         The Strategy aims to achieve the following outcomes: more agile response to community needs; improved digital accessibility; increased operational efficiency, better decision-making capabilities, an adaptable and resilient IT estate, and provide staff with improved digital and data skills.

  iv.         The Strategy is structured into four strands: digital customer journey, data and information management, technology and innovation, and digital and data skills development. Each strand has specific missions and actions to deliver the desired target state of the Council.

Decision of the Leader of the Council

Approve the 5-year Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) Strategy.

Reason for the Decision

As set out in the Officer’s report.

Any Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

Not applicable.

Scrutiny Considerations

The Committee received a report from the Strategic Digital Lead Manager.

The Strategic Digital Lead said the following in response to Members’ questions:

i.      3C ICT, Strategy and Data were not a part of the service offer. That service agreement was currently being reviewed.

ii.    3C ICT review likely coming to this Committee in September.

iii.   Working on improving digital exclusion had internal support. Could improve signposting what the Council was already doing.

iv.  Part of the strategy was more bespoke training for staff.

v.    The Technical Design Authority (TDA) would be made up of Strategic Digital Lead, counterparts from 3C ICT. Were currently looking for a Solutions Architect to join the team. Depending on the outcome of the service review, may have representatives from South Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire Councils as well.

vi.  As part of digital function that was being looked at internally, were looking at how to create a business intelligence function. Would like to look at Councils data assets and make that available to staff and the public.

vii. In response to a comment by the Chair about concentrating on the summary in the report in order for Members to more easily take in the information, Officer stated that she would take that feedback on board going forward.

The Scrutiny Committee unanimously approved the recommendations.

The Leader approved the recommendations.

Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Executive Councillor (and any Dispensations Granted)

No conflicts of interest were declared by the Executive Councillor