Agenda item

·  Noted the update to the modernisation and remediation activities being undertaken by the ICT & Digital Team and understand the ongoing risks, issues and challenges as the work continues.

·  Noted the next steps on the journey to the proper functioning of IT, underpinned by an adaptive strategy that has a focus on appropriate levels of capacity and capability.

The Lead Member for Customer Services, Procurement & Performance introduced a report that updated on the progress of the ICT & Digital modernisation and remediation work approved by Cabinet in March 2022.

The modernisation programme comprised of 40 projects and it was expected to take at least two years to deliver.  Progress on each of the following four key themes was set out:

·  Cloud migration of line of business application;

·  Cyber security and resilience;

·  End use compute; and

·  Replacing aged infrastructure.

To date, 7 of the 40 projects were complete with 25 to be delivered in 2022/23 and 4 in 2023/24.  The ICT & Digital team had also been through a full staffing restructure and recruitment to some of remaining vacant roles was still taking place.  It was recognised that it was challenging to recruit high quality IT staff in a competitive market.  Key appointments had been made including of an AD Chief Digital & Information Officer.

Whilst good progress had been made overall on the programme, delivery had been slower than anticipated in some areas.  The ability to recruit skilled interim staff had been a limiting factor.  A significant amount of re-procurement activity had also taken place.

The Cabinet welcomed the report and the progress that had been made.  ICT & Digital was a key area for improvement and Lead Members agreed that the report demonstrated that the programme was being well-managed and delivered.  The report was noted.

Resolved –

(a)  That the update to the modernisation and remediation activities being undertaken by the ICT & Digital Team and understand the ongoing risks, issues and challenges as the work continued be noted.

(b)  That the next steps on the journey to the proper functioning of IT, underpinned by an adaptive strategy that had a focus on appropriate levels of capacity and capability be noted.