Local authority leaders have partnered with technology experts to launch a joint new outcomes-based framework for improving and supporting local government digitalisation programmes.

The framework, which has been created by the Local Government Association (LGA), Socitm and Solace, aims to promote the use of a common language and shared strategic outcomes by local government when engaging with central Government, private, voluntary, and community sectors as well as with one another.

In doing so, the framework will support the design and delivery of modern public services, enabling councils to operate effectively as digital organisations, and champion the digital needs of their communities.

The 12 strategic outcomes relate to: connectivity, data, democracy, ethics, inclusion, leadership, local productivity, organisational capability, partnership, security & resilience, services and value.

Cllr Neil Prior, deputy chair of the LGA’s Improvement and Innovation Board, said: ‘We’re really pleased to be working with Socitm and Solace to promote a new outcomes-based framework for improving and supporting local government digitalisation programmes.

‘During the pandemic, we saw more than ever before our reliance and need to be able to access services online.

‘Councils are already leading the way in providing online services and meeting the digital needs of their local communities.

‘However, this partnership working together will set out a common language which will enable us to take this to the next level, better engage with local and central government, and deliver digital services more effectively for residents.’

Socitm president Huw McKee said: ‘We’re delighted to be working so closely with our LGA and Solace colleagues, as it is vital we speak with one voice on digitalisation for local government.

‘This agreed language and shared strategic aims puts our sector in a strong position to positively influence engagement with central government, which ultimately benefits digital delivery in the communities we serve.’

Alison McKenzie-Folan, digital leadership lead for Solace, commented: ‘Local government continually pushes the boundaries through its digital transformation and technical creativity and this valuable resource will only add to our ability to share practice, communicate effectively and build partnerships.

‘My thanks go to colleagues at the LGA and Socitm for delivering this framework and we look forward to continuing the collaboration as we share its benefits across the sector and beyond.’