UK’s DDaT procurement playbook draws mixed reviews from CIOs

The DDaT Playbook, announced at the end of March, outlines 11 key policy reforms to how government entities should assess, procure, and deliver digital projects and programmes. All central government departments and bodies are expected to follow the guidance on a “comply or explain” basis, with the reforms applicable to all new DDaT programmes and expected to be considered across the wider public sector.

Of the key reforms, there’s new instruction on managing legacy IT, opening contracts to SME suppliers to maintain a level playing field, for early and proactive pipeline management, designing effective contracts, agile development, and the sharing of information and data between authorities and suppliers in government.

Furthermore, there’s a commitment to sustainable DDaT projects and programmes and a desire to introduce security earlier in the software lifecycle, often referred to as ‘security by design.’

The Central Data Digital Office (CDDO), the part of the Cabinet Office responsible for DDaT strategy, standards, and assurance, told CIO.com that the Playbook will be delivered to public sector bodies via an “implementation programme for public sector professionals, which includes training and commercial support on priority projects” and that the playbook is subject to Parliamentary process.