Local authorities seek to work with supplier to lay out roadmap
Kensington and Chelsea and its neighbouring borough Westminster are to set a joint strategy for IT services and technology deployment.
The two boroughs have shared ICT services since 2011. Until last year, Hammersmith and Fulham was also part of the “tri-borough” arrangement, but in 2017 the other two authorities opted to begin the process of severing ties with their western neighbour after it decided to establish some of its own in-house functions.
A shared-service ICT arrangement is now in place for the two remaining authorities, who are seeking a supplier partner to “work with the bi-boroughs to deliver an IT strategy and roadmap”.
The two councils are working together on a “complex portfolio of IT change programmes” across four areas: planning, housing and communities; adult social care; children’s services; and corporate functions.
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To help guide these programmes, the authorities are looking to “carry out a rapid IT strategy project before the end of the financial year”. The plans developed as part of this project will also include “a clear roadmap for delivery”.
IT leaders from the two boroughs will work with the chosen supplier to develop the strategy. The councils indicated that they are happy to work with either a team of advisors or a single person.
No budget has been set for the project, but the authorities said they are “looking for value for money”.
Bids for the project are open until 11 February, with the intention being to sign a contract of up to two months a fortnight thereafter.
