Councils face a wave of wicked challenges, from growing service demands, shrinking budgets and ageing IT systems that are costly and difficult to secure. The need to modernise is clear, but so are the risks that come with implementing new technology.
We all know the horror stories. Costly IT programmes that drag on for years, systems that fail to deliver and projects that never win staff or community trust. In local government, failure isn't just technical, it can disrupt critical services, waste public funds, and damage morale.
This model is unique in the sector. It removes the most common risks of digital transformation: delays, cost overruns and failed projects. For councils, that means greater certainty; for us, it means standing behind our product and our people. If we don't deliver, we don't get paid.
From our experience, the biggest hurdles are data migration and adapting to new business processes. Councils must move decades of sensitive, inconsistent data into modern systems while transforming how people work across finance, HR, and customer engagement. Each task is challenging on its own; together, they can be daunting without the right support.
That's why TechnologyOne created SaaS+. Unlike traditional software-as-a-service, where implementation risk sits largely with the customer, SaaS+ combines our platform with a guaranteed implementation service. We don't just provide the software; we work alongside our customers until the system is live and delivering results.
As one of our delivery leads put it: ‘We've been through the hard yards with councils, and we know the pitfalls. SaaS+ is about making sure they don't fall into them.'
This model is unique in the sector. It removes the most common risks of digital transformation: delays, cost overruns and failed projects. For councils, that means greater certainty; for us, it means standing behind our product and our people. If we don't deliver, we don't get paid.
North Tyneside Council is a great example. Facing outdated systems and tight budgets, they couldn't afford a drawn-out or risky project. Through SaaS+, they successfully migrated, modernised their core systems, and achieved a smooth transition for staff. More than new software, it built confidence that transformation could be achieved without disruption.
True transformation depends on partnership, trust, and shared accountability. When suppliers take responsibility for outcomes, not just licences, councils can focus on delivering services to their communities.
SaaS+ is more than technology; it's a long-term partnership that supports capability, confidence, and measurable results. Digital transformation will always carry challenges, but with the right model and the right partner, it doesn't have to be risky.
www.technology1.co.uk
