What is the story about?
What's Happening?
A report from techUK, in partnership with Henham Strategy, highlights a mismatch between public-sector buyers and technology suppliers, hindering government digital reform. The report suggests a shift in procurement processes and funding models to focus on long-term investments rather than short-term needs. Recommendations include embedding guiding principles such as flexibility, collaboration, and pro-innovation in digital procurement. The report also calls for revamping funding models, boosting digital commercial skills, and aligning public procurement practices with the commercial sector to make opportunities accessible for SMEs.
Why It's Important?
The identified mismatch between government procurement practices and tech suppliers poses a barrier to digital transformation in the public sector. By adopting the report's recommendations, the government can enhance its approach to digital delivery, fostering innovation and economic growth. Aligning procurement practices with the commercial sector can improve efficiency, support SMEs, and ensure better public service outcomes. This shift is crucial for maintaining the government's ambition to leverage technology for economic growth and improved public services.
What's Next?
TechUK plans to continue engaging with industry and central government to ensure digital delivery remains a priority in the national growth agenda. Implementing the report's recommendations could lead to more effective collaboration between the government and tech suppliers, supporting outcome-focused digital delivery and encouraging innovation.
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