Analysing Local Government software markets
Pyramid Stage Room 11:35am to 12:15pm
In so much of the work and research that Local Digital has done with councils, we have heard that there are low levels of satisfaction with software markets. We have heard about:
- poor interoperability between systems
- lack of transparency in pricing
- limited competition and choice
- challenges of migration and implementation
To address this, we are expanding our research and testing ways in which central government can support councils to improve their digital procurement practices and strategic supplier management.
A Network Blueprint for LGR, Digital Transformation and Continuous Improvement
John Peel Stage Room 11:35am to 12:15pm
As Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) progresses, there’s a valuable opportunity to reimagine digital infrastructure to enable more efficient, citizen-centric services. This session explores how partnering with a trusted MSP and adopting a flexible Network as a Service (NaaS) model can help local authorities overcome common challenges, including shrinking budgets, legacy systems, and limited in-house resources. Cloud-ready, scalable networks with built-in observability and intelligent management provide the digital foundation for streamlined service consolidation, improved interoperability, secure technology adoption, and long-term cost savings. Whether you’re currently undergoing reorganisation or preparing for future change, this session offers practical insights on leveraging modern networking to do more with less and better serve your communities.
- The benefits of Network as a Service and what problems does it solve
- A phased approach to transition
- Where has this been done before – Avon and Somerset Police
LocalGov Drupal – improving digital experiences for your customer
Acoustic Stage Room 11:35am to 12:15pm
This session explores how LocalGov Drupal helps local governments create user-centric digital services.
Experts and practitioners will discuss strategies to enhance accessibility, security, and efficiency, ensuring cost-effective, citizen-focused online experiences.
How can councils collaborate to go further together?
A practical workshop to explore regional partnership opportunities
John Peel Stage Room 12:20pm to 1:00pm
There’s a gap between central government (often remote) and local government (often fragmented) that needs addressing. In this focused 40-minute session we’ll explore: How can local authorities work together at a regional level to deliver better outcomes?
We’ll share examples of what’s working, identify the biggest barriers holding councils back, and leave with practical ideas and next steps for collaboration in your area.
Key takeaways:
- Quick wins – Examples of collaboration that’s already working well and could be replicated
- Barriers – The top three things stopping deeper council partnerships (and which ones we can tackle)
- Next steps – Leave with one concrete action you can take to start or strengthen collaboration
- Resources – Key contacts and tools to help make collaboration happen
Process Mapping & Service Design: The Journey – LGR to Now
Acoustic Stage Room 12:20pm to 1:00pm
Join Rachael Dixon, Service Design & Change Lead at Somerset Council and understand how service design and process redesign shaped a more digital, user-focused authority.
Learn from the creation and rollout of a Process Design Manual rooted in user needs and operational efficiency. Discover how these best practices are now driving transformation at the new Council, where the Service Design & Change team is embedding a unified Target Operating Model (TOM) to foster collaboration, insight-led improvement, and continuous innovation across a newly reorganised local government landscape.