Issue - meetings

Report of ICT and Digital Lead

Purpose of report

To present the Digital Futures Strategy, a forward-thinking blueprint designed to greatly improve the experience for all stakeholders - citizens, businesses, partners, visitors, staff, and elected members. Our strategy deviates from traditional IT strategies; instead of centring on specific technology implementations, we prioritise identifying innovative technologies and approaches that align with our ambition to become the best version of ourselves. Our aim is to leverage digital advancements to foster an improved, engaging, and seamless experience for all.

Recommendations

The meeting is recommended:

1.1       To approve the Digital Futures Strategy.

Resolved

(1)          That the Digital Futures Strategy be approved.

The ICT and Digital Lead submitted a report to present the Digital Futures Strategy, a forward-thinking blueprint designed to greatly improve the experience for all stakeholders - citizens, businesses, partners, visitors, staff, and elected members. The Strategy deviated from traditional IT strategies because instead of centring on specific technology implementations, it prioritised identifying innovative technologies and approaches that align with the ambition to become the best version of ourselves. The aim was to leverage digital advancements to foster an improved, engaging, and seamless experience for all.

Resolved

(1)           That the Digital Futures Strategy be approved.

Reasons

Embracing the digital approaches proposed in this strategy will align our services with the evolving expectations and daily digital interactions of our customers. By automating routine tasks, we empower our council officers to devote their expertise to more complex cases and to community members who would benefit from a more personal touch. Our commitment to gradual and strategic "evolution" rather than abrupt "revolution" allows us to manage the cost implications effectively. As such, most expenses related to the digital transformation will seamlessly integrate within our existing transformational budget or coincide with our planned system replacement schedules. This thoughtful approach ensures a smoother transition towards our digital future, minimising disruption while maximising benefits and value for our community.

Alternative Options

Option 1: To request the creation of a more traditional IT Strategy. Due to the drivers for transformation, a traditional IT Strategy would not provide the framework required to support radical change if needed.