To consider the response to the recommendations arising from the Strategic Monitoring Committee (SMC) review of ICT Services, conducted by the ICT Services Review Group in November 2008.

The Interim Head of ICT Services presented the report to Cabinet and reminded Cabinet of the terms of reference for revisiting the review of ICT Services carried out in December 2006.  He stated there was a requirement to ensure value for money, that performance was improving, that ICT Services were fit for purpose to improve outcomes in the county and to make recommendations as appropriate to the executive. 

The Interim Head of ICT Services stated that each recommendation and the proposed response was detailed in Appendix 2 of the report and added that a number of the key recommendations supported activity that was currently being progressed through the service plan.  This included:

·         the re-provision of a Data Centre,

·         the use of the Community Network by the PCT and inclusion in re-procurement,

·         the encryption of mobile equipment,

·         ensuring that websites met accessibility standards; and

·         the roll-out of enhanced broadband services to schools.

The Alliance Group Leader referred to the Data Centre at Rotherwas and to the costs.  He was advised by the Interim Head of ICT Services that the original scheme cost was £1.9m, however, the revised scheme is estimated to cost approximately £400k and emphasised that costs would be closely monitored.  The Leader added the need to recognise this was a five year solution.

The Chairman of the Strategic Monitoring Committee informed Cabinet that a considerable amount of time and effort had been put into the review, however, he was very concerned about the situation at Rotherwas with regards to the broad band provision and that it was a vital requirement for businesses.  Cabinet was reminded of the work that was being done with BT on this issue and that a meeting was being held with BT at the end of March to press home the point.

RESOLVED THAT: the response to the recommendations arising from the Review be approved.