Current projects
In a previous interchange article, we explained about the Project Gateway Process, which is in place to prioritise and authorise our major corporate projects.
Here we’ll dig a bit deeper and let you know what projects are being undertaken in 2017 and what progress is expected to be made during the course of the year.
We sat down for a cuppa and a chat with David Morris, who runs the Project Management Office (PMO). David and his team support the delivery of these projects, and the administration of the Project Gateway Process.
He tells us: “Just now there are 18 strategic corporate projects delivering big changes across the council, all at different stages of development and implementation. They range from new primary and secondary schools, to new software systems for HR and payroll.
“This year we expect to start more service redesign projects, as the organisation tackles financial challenges and changes in legislation. Whatever the project, it must deliver changes that benefit clients, communities, taxpayers and staff.”
But it’s not all about the new projects. Given the complexity of some, it can take months or even years of planning before tangible progress is made. As such, we’ve got teams across the council working on projects that were given the go-ahead in previous years, and the work is still continuing.
“Careful planning and implementation is part of the project work itself, and is as vital as the construction of a building or the purchasing of tens of thousands of pounds of software”, says David. “We need to get it right.”
It all starts with a mandate - an evaluation of the options available - and a business case. But before anything gets past the Gateway, the Project Board must analyse all of the information in the plans, including the proposed cost.
David adds “It’s why we’re here - to make sure we’re meeting our responsibility of offering best value for money to our residents.”
If you want more information on any of the projects mentioned, you can pop into the PMO for a chat with David, Dave, Mark or Shona (find them in HQ room 243), send them an email, or phone 01343 563961 (or x3810).