The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has set out three objectives and nine principles for the use of digital ways of working in the department.
It said these provide a new strategic vision focused on outcomes as an alternative to a static document.
First of the three objectives is to embed digital in policy, with the MHCLG digital team helping the department to deliver more responsive and user-friendly policies, and using technology to improve the efficiency of how policy is implemented.
Second is to accelerate digital maturity through building skills, supporting the use of digital tools and automation in internal processes, and building the department’s capability in the field.
Third is to enhance operational excellence through ensuring technology tools are user-friendly, secure and effective, protecting data and services from threats and ensuring compliance with government standards.
The nine principles are:
- Start with the needs of the user and value their knowledge.
- Support fairness and equality in the development and use of new technologies.
- Be committed to rapid delivery while adhering to functional standards.
- Strive to provide value for money for the taxpayer.
- Adapt to our environment and plan for the future.
- Encourage standardisation and re-usability
- Security is intrinsic and proactive.
- Be accountable and work transparently.
- Develop digital skills and work together.
MHCLG’s chief digital officer, Gill Stewart, commented: “Digital is not just something that lives within a single part of the organisation. Digital is being called out as a primary driver across government, and we need to ensure that we're all ready for this ask.”
