Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 25
25
Accepted
ODP collaborates with GDS to integrate operational and digital capabilities for service delivery.
Recommendation
Witnesses described the importance of bringing together operational and digital capabilities–for example, by doing work to make a process efficient before bringing in digital tools, such as AI.47 The ODP also described how it was working with the Government Digital Service (GDS) to facilitate this, both in terms of helping with access to digital tools as well as enabling it to learn about the best examples of digital service delivery.48 Understanding and managing changes in demand
Government Response Summary
The ODP agreed to work with the Government Digital and Data Profession to define the digital skills that ODP professionals require, and include them in the new skills framework by December 2026. They will also partner with key stakeholders and regularly update the Professional Skills Framework.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
5. PAC conclusion: It is vital that the ODP keeps pace with advances in new technology and artificial intelligence and the implications for the changing skills its members need. 5. PAC recommendation: The ODP should work with the Government Digital and Data Profession to define the digital skills that ODP professionals require, and include them in the new skills framework, to support government organisations to navigate the impact of new technology and artificial intelligence and adopt it to deliver better services. 5.1 The Profession agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: December 2026 5.2 The Profession recognises the importance of partnering with key stakeholders, including the Government Digital and Data Profession, Whitehall and Industry Group (WIG) and HoPs, to understand and impact emerging and future technologies. The Profession is also represented on the Cabinet Office led Data-Driven Innovation / Artificial Intelligence (DDI/AI) skills advisory board. 5.3 A workforce challenges study is also underway to identify future skills needs in operational delivery. This research will explore the skills required as technology advances and citizen expectations shift, and how these skills can be effectively procured and delivered. 5.4 The Professional Skills Framework, learning curriculum and senior leadership programmes and activity will be regularly updated to reflect new skills, opportunities and required learning. The Profession will continue to encourage HoPs to promote cross- government and AI initiatives in their departments and agencies, such as ‘One Big Thing - AI for All’, ensuring operational delivery has a voice and that information on new technology adoption is shared appropriately and sensitively. 5.5 Through ongoing engagement with HoPs, the Profession will remain reactive to the balance between innovation and technological change, and foundational service delivery, as use of new technology and enhanced communication skills become key to delivery of quality services to citizens.