We set out to answer the question ‘In developing its digital strategy has the council acted in accordance with the sustainable development principle and put in place proper arrangements to secure value for money in the use of its resources?’

We did this by exploring the following questions:

• Is the council’s digital strategy informed by a good understanding of current and future trends?
• Does the council have a clear vision of what it wants to achieve through the use of digital technology?
• Is the council working effectively with the right people and partners to design and deliver its digital strategy?
• Has the council resourced delivery of its digital strategy so it can deliver long-term/preventative benefits?
• Is the council monitoring and reviewing progress?
• Is the council learning lessons from how it works?

What we found

The council is developing its strategic approach to digital but has not yet clarified the resources required to deliver it or its monitoring arrangements, and there are weaknesses in its approach to partnership working.