Decision - Corporate Systems Improvement

This report provides an update on plans and proposals to update and improve the council's core HR, Finance and Payroll systems.

That Cabinet: 1) Agree the Outline Business Case for the Phase One capital investment requirement of £2.75 million from borrowing with a loan period of 10 years. 2) Agree the re-procurement of the HR/Payroll and Finance/Purchasing systems and associated modules for a maximum period of up to 5 years, including extensions, and delegate authority to the Corporate Director Corporate Services (or a successor role) to take all steps necessary to secure best value and award the contracts. 3) Agree to delegate authority to the Corporate Director Corporate Services (or a successor role) to procure other intermediary products, applications and licences during Phase One to support the improvement programme. 4) Note the expected requirement for further capital investment of £4m to £6m (at current prices) for Phase Two to fully realise the vision and that a further business case will be submitted to Cabinet for this phase of the programme.

The document sets out a corporate systems vision focused on using best-of-breed technologies, adopting products without unnecessary modification, and supporting digitally enabled services. It prioritises open and connected data, cloud-first platforms, self-service, automation, streamlined processes and improved digital skills.