Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 22
22
Accepted
Department lacks capability for ESN systems integration, seeking external expertise
Recommendation
We queried whether the Department has the capability to manage the systems integration73 given its previous approaches had not worked.74 It agreed that it needs to strengthen its capability. When we asked if it was acquiring people with experience from other complex programmes, it said it was talking to other large programmes such as Crossrail and was looking for new supplier to supplement its skills. Its current contract with Deloitte was due to end and will be replaced in 2023.75
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the need to strengthen its systems integration capability, committing to commission the IAP to monitor and assure integration plans by July 2024, and to continue strengthening the Programme Management team by recruiting specialists and partnering with external experts, including through the Lot 2 supplier.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
4.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: July 2024 4.2 The department has concentrated efforts on addressing the complexity of the integration required for success. 4.3 The department will commission the IAP to monitor, comment on and assure both the integration plans of the bidders for the User Services contract; the later delivery of them by the successful consortium; the appropriateness and scale of the resources dedicated to it; and the overall integration with the mobile services contract. 4.4 The Home Office continues to strengthen the core capabilities of the Programme Management team, by recruiting experienced specialists and by establishing partnerships with external technical delivery experts. This includes ensuring the Home Office procures the full range of technical capabilities required from the new Lot 2 supplier.