Articles

The cost of government’s “bonfire of the quangos” will be nearly twice the amount estimated by departments, according to a report published by the National Audit Office (NAO) last week.

Which technologies will change the way we work, and which are just a flash in the pan? Suzannah Brecknell reports on a discussion of how new technologies are set to transform government’s interactions with the public.

The government’s deputy CIO Bill McCluggage has spoken of the need to identify "robust funding" for the Government App Store, a planned online portal through which public sector organisations will be able to source, share and promote certified ICT solutions.

 

Last week, departments published figures showing their spending on a range of back office functions. Suzannah Brecknell analyses what they reveal about departments’ efficiency – and about the weakness of government data.

The Cabinet Office has launched a new website where public sector workers can submit suggestions on how to make their organisations more efficient. The website, called 'Tell Us How', was launched last week and is open to all public sector staff - from frontline workers to senior civil servants.

Last year, the coalition cut back many branches of government in its 'bonfire of the quangos'. Joshua Chambers looks at how officials can integrate some of the staff and functions of dismembered quangos into their departments.

Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude has announced the closure of the Central Office of Information (COI), following a review of government direct communications published earlier this year.

Ben Willis examines how the administration budget cuts build on previous efficiency drives – and names the departments forging ahead with savings.

For years, the civil service has been urged to embrace innovation. Now shrinking budgets, the push for public sector reform and greater political appetite for risk are making this essential. Suzannah Brecknell reports.

10 Downing Street hasn’t been this relaxed in years. But Matt Ross discovers that the prime minister is nonetheless determined to create dramatic change within government – and fast.

As the spending review rolls on, cross-departmental working seems to be on the agenda at the Treasury. Suzannah Brecknell reports.

The new National Security Council will draw a range of departments into crucial decisions on security. Matt Ross reports on the coalition’s attempt to win cross-government consensus in a complex and unpredictable world.

While civil service salaries come under pressure, the government has announced a bold legislative programme. Joshua Chambers picks out the key bills which will affect officials’ work – including the plans for welfare reform.

For a decade, the devolved administrations have been altering services to suit their own populations. But as Shafik Meghji finds, when services diverge, the resulting cross-border tensions can hit service users.

The shared services agenda seems to be picking up speed again, with a recent prime ministerial speech and increased political interest. But what challenges remain? Matthew O’Toole listens in at a round table discussion.

A new report from influential think-tank the Institute for Government recommends a stronger, strategy-setting centre of government. Many see the logic, but wonder how it could be achieved. Matthew O’Toole reports.