Issue - meetings

A report presenting the Council’s Digital & Data Strategy (2022-2025) for approval.

Portfolio Holder - Councillor Andy Jenns

Councillor Kam Kaur (Portfolio Holder for Education) presented this report on behalf of Councillor Andy Jenns.  She noted that the Digital & Data Strategy 2022-2025 built on the existing strategy which had been the basis for decision making for ICT investment and development since 2018. The strategy had delivered a great deal for the Council and had been fundamental to maintaining full service delivery during the pandemic.

Councillor Margaret Bell welcomed the strategy and opportunities to automate in order to make life easier for customers.  In response to comments from Councillor Bell regarding service areas working together on digital delivery, Councillor Kaur noted that there were mechanisms in place to support working in an integrated way where a good business case existed.

Councillor Andy Crump noted that some residents struggled to access digital services and Councillor Kaur acknowledged that the pandemic had driven more users onto digital platforms but this was not necessarily their preference and other methods of engagement would remain in place.

Councillor Jerry Roodhouse asked if the digital roadmap would be considered by Scrutiny and was advised that it was intended to use the roadmap to deliver the strategy.  The Strategic Director for Resources would explore what was possible in this regard.

Resolved that Cabinet endorses the Council’s refreshed Digital & Data Strategy 2022-2025 attached at Appendix 1 to the report.