The relevance of technology has become fundamental to the success of companies around the world. And as this develops, it has become commonplace for countries to employ more IT solutions experts. However, this will bring an additional problem, namely when Rather than developing internal digital competencies, they rely more on external providers. Internships to better manage their public services.

Something similar is happening in the UK, where the lack of digital skills in this sector will hinder domestic technological progress. A reality that also occurs in other European countries, such as Spain. Therefore, it faces various challenges to promote ICT development in the region, which is limited by the lack of computer skills in public departments.

UK dependence on external suppliers

This is according to estimates made by Tussell’s group. It found that 18 of the UK’s 40 private sector strategic suppliers generating revenues of over £5.8 billion. This has been through government contracts over the last three years, highlighting the growing reliance on external providers to meet technology service needs.

We are talking about 4% of the region’s total expenditure, which will be allocated to external suppliers. Instead of investing in developing public service technology. An alarming figure if we consider that it only covers the period 2020 to 2021. Therefore, a greater increase is expected in the coming years, especially facing 2024. This shows a lack of focus on internal training of government leaders.

Current processes do not meet residents’ needs

It also highlights that the lack of IT solutions in the UK is largely due to operational deficiencies in its departments. In this sense, it describes the sector as “obsolete” and unable to meet society’s needs. Shortfalls that will create a gap between the demands of citizenship and the inability of public services to meet them.

That’s what he emphasized again lack of digital skills at all levels of the public sector, from highest to lowest. Because this is closely related to the phenomenon of delegating most initiatives to IT providers, in an effort to provide “better results” to society. When the reality is that entities do not have the necessary skills or resources, they are forced to seek external support to develop their projects.

The importance of training leaders in digital skills

As mentioned above, this reality not only impacts the UK, but also other European countries. Such is the case in Spain, where demand for external solutions by the public sector is still quite high. Although there are efforts to raise awareness about the importance of digitalization. As well as encouraging internal training to reduce dependence on suppliers, ensuring the region’s ability to overcome current challenges.

“It is vital for the Prime Minister to be a committed leader who believes in achieving this goal. “Any type of transformation in the government structure must start from the top and be the government’s top priority.”

This is what commented Benedict Macon-Cooney (Head of Policy Strategy at the Tony Blair Institute), who confirmed that digital transformation leadership does not fall into the hands of leading ICT companies, but in government entities in the region. Therefore, governments must take a proactive approach, investing in technology, developing internal digital skills and encouraging collaboration with the sector.

The role of government in supporting the IT sector

This means that to usher in change, it is important to provide the necessary support to technology leaders. Both in terms of financing and freedom to implement projects that encourage regional development. Therefore, it is important to analyze how to optimize internal processes and implement improvements that benefit society. Likewise, foster an environment that encourages collaboration.

Not to mention that It’s important to have a team of experts with strong digital skills, don’t limit yourself to just accepting ideas. On the contrary, they never stop making innovative comments about how to improve public services in the region. This way we can ensure a comprehensive and strategic vision that allows us to overcome the challenges of digital transformation.

Lack of leadership and digital skills will have a negative impact on public services

Currently, there are a number of shortcomings in the system, according to a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report, which described the system as “inflexible”. Additionally, they accused him of not setting proper requirements, but instead focusing on reducing costs. To the extent that there have been cuts in functions and personnel in various internal departments in the regions, resulting in negative impacts.

This way, they just find it 10 of the UK’s top 75 services meet the standard considered “extraordinary”. Meanwhile, other services require significant improvements to meet user needs. Once again emphasizing how a lack of digital leadership will negatively impact a region’s public administration.