Public Sector

[Case Study] British Councils: Shaping the British Digital Future

Welcome to our exploration of British public sector, with a special focus on Councils.

These are challenging times for the nation's public services, as the government calls for cost reductions across the board due to the current economic climate. Councils are now faced with the task of implementing necessary measures to achieve these financial goals.

At RedDog Transformation (RDT), we bring over 15 years of experience working with the EU public sector, ranging from local municipalities to ministries. This breadth of experience has given us a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within this sector.

In the UK, our collaboration with British District Councils, particularly in implementing the ambitious Information System 2023-2028 strategy at North Kesteven District Council (NKDC), stands as a testament to our expertise. We led the initial phase, focusing on comprehensive planning and strategic groundwork. This phase included the development of a Lean Deployment framework and conducting in-depth interviews with directors and key managers across various service areas. Our efforts culminated in a substantial proposal to reduce IT licence costs by approximately £95,000 as part of our deduplication initiative. This project not only targets immediate cost savings but is also a step towards broader cost reductions and process improvements set to commence in 2024.

Furthermore, this initiative at NKDC has evolved into a case study for a collaborative research project between RedDog Transformation and the University of Hull. This research project aims to explore the impacts of digital transformation strategies in the public sector, with a particular focus on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and organisational change. The insights gained from this case study are contributing to a deeper understanding of digital transformation in public entities and will inform future strategies and implementations.

In this blog, we aim to delve into the challenges and opportunities facing British Councils in the current economic landscape. We’ll look at how these challenges can be reframed as opportunities for growth and efficiency, particularly in the realm of digital transformation.

The Challenges and Spaces for Improvement in British Councils

In this part of our discussion, we turn our focus to the intricate challenges faced by British Councils, emphasising how these can be seen not just as hurdles, but as significant opportunities for growth, particularly in digital transformation.

Current State vs Potential Improvements: A Comparative Overview

Below is a table that contrasts the current operational scenarios within British Councils with the potential areas for improvement. It demonstrates how existing challenges can be inventively transformed into opportunities for digital advancement and efficiency.

STATE OF ART	CHALLENGES / SPACES FOR IMPROVEMENTS
Commitment to Stability and Security British Councils, as part of the public sector, offer a stable and secure career environment. This is ideal for individuals seeking long-term employment with minimal risk. Such stability ensures a consistent approach to community projects, prioritising careful planning and a risk-averse approach.	Opportunities for Dynamic Evolution While the stability and security in British Councils offer commendable long-term career paths, they also present opportunities for fostering a more dynamic work culture. Embracing a culture that encourages innovation can further enhance their digital transformation efforts, bridging the gap between stability and agility.
Dedicated Specialisation in Service Areas In British Councils, managers and teams specialise in specific software and systems, enhancing their capability to effectively manage distinct operational needs. This specialised knowledge contributes to the council's efficiency, ensuring each department excels in its respective area.	Enhancing Cross-Departmental Integration The specialised focus of Council departments, while efficient in their domains, highlights the potential for greater cross-departmental integration. Enhancing holistic digital strategies across different service areas can lead to more unified and cohesive digital transformation outcomes.
Structured Approach in SME-Sized Councils Despite being similar in size to SMEs, many Councils adopt a structured, corporate approach. This brings a level of professionalism and thorough strategy implementation to their operations, ensuring issues are managed with the utmost efficiency and aligning with best practices.	Balancing Corporate Structure with Agility The corporate approach of SME-sized Councils, though structured, also brings to light the need for more agile methodologies in digital practices. Incorporating flexible digital strategies can complement the existing structured approach, leading to more responsive and adaptable digital solutions.
Constructive Problem-Solving As public entities, Councils focus on framing issues as 'challenges', promoting a positive and solution-focused approach. This ensures the responsible and efficient use of public funds, encouraging constructive solutions that serve the community.	Reframing Challenges as Opportunities for Growth Councils' approach to framing problems as challenges can be channelled into recognising opportunities for digital growth and innovation. Acknowledging and addressing digital transformation challenges head-on can lead to more effective and forward-thinking digital strategies.
Informed Decision-Making with Political Insight The political involvement in Councils ensures a wide range of community interests are represented in decision-making. This leads to well-rounded decisions that consider diverse community needs, ensuring a holistic approach to serving public interests.	Navigating Political Considerations with Digital Objectivity The political landscape within which Councils operate offers a unique challenge in maintaining digital objectivity. Emphasising data-driven and user-focused digital strategies can ensure that technology decisions are made in the best interest of community service enhancement.
Responsible Financial Stewardship Councils are tasked with the responsible management of public finances, focusing on the welfare of the community over profit. This ensures resources are allocated towards initiatives that directly benefit public services and community well-being.	Strategic Allocation of Digital Resources The management of public finances in Councils highlights the importance of strategic allocation towards digital initiatives. Identifying key areas in digital transformation where investment can yield substantial community benefits is crucial for effective resource utilisation.
A Protective Approach to Public Welfare The protective nature of Council operations prioritises safeguarding community interests. This cautious approach ensures transparency and accountability in all actions, maintaining the focus on public welfare.	Cultivating Openness in Digital Transformation The protective nature of Council operations, while crucial for safeguarding public interests, also presents an opportunity to cultivate a culture of openness and transparency in digital initiatives. Encouraging open dialogues about digital strategies can further align technological advancements with public welfare goals.

Consider, for instance, the issue of specialised service areas operating in isolation. While this approach ensures deep expertise in specific domains, it simultaneously presents a prime opportunity to enhance cross-departmental integration. Adopting more holistic digital strategies can lead Councils to a more unified and cohesive digital transformation approach. This shift not only streamlines processes but also fosters a culture of collaboration and shared knowledge.

Service areas like silos. (Image credit: DeepAI, an open sounrce project)

AT RDT, our approach to tackling these challenges is informed by our extensive experience with the EU public sector, including particular work with British District Councils. Our engagement with North Kesteven District Council (NKDC) is a prime example of our capability to strategically plan and implement robust digital solutions. These solutions not only tackled immediate operational challenges but also established a foundation for continuous innovation and digital efficiency.

By viewing these challenges from a constructive perspective, RDT is committed to guiding British Councils through the complexities of digital transformation. Our aim is to ensure that each measure taken is in sync with both the immediate operational needs and the long-term strategic goals, striking a balance between specialised expertise and the benefits of integrated digital strategies.

RDT's Contribution and Impact

How does RedDog Transformation significantly contribute to and impact the digital transformation journey of British Councils?Central to our approach are the Networking Capability Model and our guiding ethos, encapsulated in our motto, 'Go Digital, Be Human'.

Networking Capability Model: A Game Changer for Councils

The Networking Capability Model is central to our strategy, offering Councils access to a diverse pool of expertise and skills. This model is not just about providing a service; it's about creating an interconnected ecosystem of knowledge and capability. When a Council engages with an RDT professional, they gain access to our entire network's expertise, ensuring a comprehensive approach to problem-solving and innovation.

An abstract interpretation of our Networking Capability Model, according to DeepAI, an open sounrce project

One prime example of this model in action is our collaboration with North Kesteven District Council (NKDC). In spearheading the initial phase of their ambitious Information System 2023-2028 strategy, the key to our success was not just the skills and expertise of the individual consultant assigned to the project, but the collective wisdom and capabilities of the entire RDT network. This individual served as a conduit, bringing the breadth of RDT's insights, knowledge, skills, and expertise to the table.

The project involved strategic planning and groundwork, using a Lean Deployment framework and conducting in-depth interviews with directors and managers. This approach, enriched by the collective intelligence of RDT, led to a substantial proposal for reducing IT licence costs and enhancing operational efficiency. The consultant, backed by the entire RDT team, was able to provide a comprehensive, multifaceted perspective that set a solid foundation for NKDC's transformative digital future. This not only showcased the practical application of our model but also demonstrated how one consultant, supported by a network of professionals, can bring about significant change and progress.

Embodying 'Go Digital, Be Human'

Our motto, 'Go Digital, Be Human', reflects our belief that technology should enhance, not overshadow, human potential. In our work with Councils, this means balancing the stability of traditional systems with the need for innovation. We understand the protective nature of Council operations and work to introduce digital solutions that are both secure and forward-looking.

For instance, while working with NKDC, we placed a strong emphasis on ensuring that digital strategies were not only technologically sound but also culturally compatible. This approach ensures that technological changes are embraced at all levels of the organisation, leading to more effective and sustainable digital transformation.

Balancing Stability with Innovation

At RDT, we understand the importance for Councils to balance the need for stability with the embrace of digital innovation. Central to our approach is the integration of key technological drivers such as flexibility, adaptability, community-driven ethos, ethics, sustainability, security, privacy, and modularity. These principles ensure our digital solutions are not only people-centric but also user-friendly.

(Image credit: DeepAI, an open sounrce project)

Our methodology includes a comprehensive assessment of current systems alongside a deep understanding of each Council's organisational culture. This approach enables us to develop digital strategies that align with each Council's unique needs and goals, resonating with our 'Go Digital. Be Human' philosophy. A crucial part of this strategy is fostering a #DigitalAwarenessEcosystem, focusing on enhancing people's awareness, consciousness, and knowledge about digital technologies. This ecosystem is pivotal in empowering individuals, leading to a more optimised utilisation and personalisation of digital tools. We believe that increasing digital awareness is akin to promoting freedom, as it equips people with the knowledge to make informed choices and fully realise their potential.

RDT's Holistic Contribution

RDT's contribution to British Councils transcends technical expertise. Our holistic approach to digital transformation harmonises the need for stability with the pursuit of innovation, all the while prioritising the human element. By embedding key technological drivers within a framework that promotes digital awareness and understanding, we ensure that our interventions are progressive, ethical, sustainable, secure, and deeply rooted in the realities of each Council's operational environment. Our goal is to empower Councils with digital solutions that are not just technically sound but also nurture the human aspects of technology and organisational change, unlocking human potential in the process.

Wrapping Up: The Digital Transformation Roadmap for Councils

In this exploration of British Councils, we've uncovered both the bright spots and the challenges within these institutions. The opportunities for digital transformation in Councils are immense, especially when navigated with insight and strategic planning. Our discussions have highlighted the potential for growth, innovation, and enhanced efficiency through digital means.

At RedDog Transformation we are committed to guiding Councils through their digital transformation journey. With our Networking Capability Model and the 'Go Digital, Be Human' philosophy, we believe that we can help Councils strike the perfect balance between technological advancement and the preservation of human-centric values. Our experience, particularly with British District Councils, demonstrates our ability to turn digital transformation challenges into opportunities for significant improvement.

Join Us on the Journey to Transformation

Are you ready to explore how digital transformation can revolutionise your Council's culture and operations? We at RedDog Transformation are here to help guide you through every step of this journey. For a discussion about how we can collaborate, or to learn more about our services and success stories, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Email us or visit our LinkedIn page to discover more about our work and how we can assist you in achieving an efficient, people-focused digital transformation.

Let’s work together to create a #DigitalAwarenessEcosystem and unlock the full potential of your Council.

Related Blogs:

[Case Study] A Road Map for a Sustainable Open Source Software Transformation Framework at North Kesteven District Council: https://reddogtransformation.ghost.io/nkdc-oss-roadmap/