Introduction
 
Through granular analysis of the technology spending plans of 100 councils, this end-user study offers insights into the networking, application, security and outsourcing opportunities in UK local government for technology vendors and service providers.
 

 
Scope
 
Questions covered core technologies, IT budget issues, operational issues, outsourcing/managed services and issues specific to UK local government.
 
Local authorities' current and future spending and sourcing strategies were identified.
 
Detail relating to authorities' satisfaction with current suppliers and how to best target local government was gathered.
 
The sample was drawn from county, metropolitan, district and borough councils, and covered all areas of the UK, including the devolved regions.
 
Highlights
 
There has been a shift in focus relating to authorities' ICT strategy in 2005. Whereas eGovernment concerns previously dictated investment, authorities are now more keen to improve internal efficiencies.
 

 
There is no consensus view in terms of authorities' approach to their supplier relationships. Around half prefer a 'one stop shop' for their ICT needs. The remainder either have one supplier for each area or they subcontract each element of their ICT.
 

 
Interest in a shared service model is clearly on the increase. Vendors must ensure that they help councils overcome political-related inhibitors and share best practices, to convert interest levels into uptake.
 

 
Reasons to Purchase
 
Understanding of local authorities' approach to ICT purchasing and deployments will enable vendors to focus their sales efforts effectively.
 
Indication of current and future budget allocation provides important insight into councils' capacity to undertake large scale technology deployments.
 
Overview of authorities' existing technology infrastructure and future roadmap will enable vendors to improve their solution positioning.