Digital
Who’s ready to go commercial in the ICT sector?
The IT managers’ society Socitm has been surveying local authorities looking at their approach to commercial development, and finds that ICT in particular has been a slow area to make progress. Geoff Connell discusses.
Are we prepared for the looming technological revolution?
We urgently need a public inquiry to answer the tough questions about the technological revolution soon to sweep the public sector, argues Adam Lent
Tackling loneliness with technology
Graham Allen and David Rees reveal how a recent project in Hampshire has shown how digital technology can help address the growing problem of chronic loneliness for the elderly.
Thinking business
Jason Longhurst explains how Central Bedfordshire Council's commercial thinking has helped to attract businesses to the area, create jobs and allowing the council to reinvest in services.
Making a digital mark
The social media genie has long since been let out of the bottle. Phil Drury explains how Boston BC is harnessing platforms like Twitter to engage with residents and protect the council’s reputation.
The power of data
Stewart Eldridge discusses with key figures the way local authorities have been making the most of quality, comprehensive data to deal with the challenge of delivering efficient, quality services.
Put your trust in the right data
Nigel Lynn comments on the importance of thoroughly-checked local statistics – and a willingness for councils to actually act on them
West Suffolk is going Dutch
Tony Goldson explains how a highly successful Dutch care model – Buurtzorg – could revolutionise the British system.
Legal action over data leak
Newcastle City Council is facing legal action over a data leak that exposed the personal details of thousands of adopted children and their parents.
Website users need a better connection
Council websites are still proving difficult for users to navigate and find information about services, according to the latest SOCITM survey, writes Vicky Sargent.
£5m digital transformation contract
Pendle BC has signed a £54m contract with Liberata as the council embarks on a digital transformation programme, leading to £5m savings.
Rates relief row heats up
The row over the slow distribution of business rates relief intensified this week, when London Councils revealed ministers were warned about problems with town hall software before Whitehall’s last-minute support package.
LGA to offer authorities mutual membership
The Local Government Association (LGA) has invited councils to become founding members of a mutual insurance company to reduce the amount the sector spends on insurance.
A signal of what’s to come
Don’t you just hate it when technology lets you down?
Sustainability, collaboration and digital
On becoming CIPFA president, Andrew Burns says he will concentrate on financial sustainability, tighter collaboration between public services and the role of digital developments and automation.
IT firm secures debt recovery deal
Central Bedfordshire Council has awarded management solutions company, Destin Solutions, the contract to help it recover debt from businesses and residents.
Authorities in ‘fear for the future,’ but coping – for now
Councils are confident they can cope financially in the coming year but fear for the future, a survey of local authority leaders and chief executives has revealed.
A new website and a new mindset
The way Teignbridge DC went about overhauling its new website has sparked a new way of thinking, says Nicola Bulbeck.
Worcs CC staff hit by payroll system issue
A director responsible for implementing a new payroll and human resources system has left after the rollout was hit by problems.
Digital dreams
Peter Davies discusses Canterbury City Council’s commitment to transforming itself from a traditional public sector provider to a streamlined, digital force.