In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the effective utilization of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is crucial for the growth and success of any public service organization. Recently I had the privilege of presenting at the Limpopo Heads of Department (HOD) Strategic Planning Session. The session brought to light the importance of strengthening ICT governance to achieve a capable and ethical public service.
During the presentation, we delved into various aspects of ICT expenditure and staff allocation. It was evident that Limpopo, like many other provinces, faces challenges in optimizing ICT expenditure and harnessing the full potential of digital technologies. The expenditure mainly focuses on telecommunications, end-user devices, and the outsourcing of systems development and operations.
One key area of concern was the low ratio of ICT expenditure to total expenditure. The global average stands at 4%, indicating that there is significant room for improvement. Additionally, the allocation of ICT staff to overall permanent employees was found to be insufficient to drive meaningful progress towards digital transformation.
To address these challenges, I proposed several practical steps towards optimizing ICT expenditure and its impact. Firstly, it is essential to establish a clear baseline of ICT software, hardware and systems within the province to inform purchasing decisions based on immediate implementation needs. Vendors often bundle excessive functionality, leading to inflated costs. Furthermore, exploring cloud-based solutions before committing to ownership can offer cost-effective alternatives.
In terms of telecommunications, maintaining a telecom link inventory and establishing controls to ensure accountability for data link payments are crucial. Unified communications options, such as IP telephony, should be explored for enhanced collaboration. Effective network management can prevent unnecessary upgrades and expenses.
To strengthen the ICT function, investment in training and capacity-building is paramount. By developing an internal systems development capability and verifying the delivery of promised outcomes before payment, departments can ensure value creation. Furthermore, considering shared provincial data centre capabilities, centralized collaboration technologies, and a province-wide approach to converged communications can optimize resource allocation.
Provinces should identify common business processes, focusing initially on citizen-facing processes, and digitalisation efforts must use the build-it-once approach, particularly where financial and human resources are limited. This approach will start to create standardised citizen experiences thereby improving citizen satisfaction and trust.
Governance emerges as a central theme in our pursuit of a capable and ethical public service. Strengthening ICT governance requires the involvement of key stakeholders. The executive authority must provide political and administrative oversight while approving strategic plans and initiatives. The head of the department should champion governance efforts and establish the corporate governance of ICT systems. The ICT steering committee, composed of representatives from various branches, should oversee ICT planning, implementation, and risk mitigation.
The Head of ICT or Government Information Technology Officer (GITO) plays a crucial role in driving digitalization. They must continuously explore innovative approaches, develop IT service management policies, and manage the execution of ICT plans. Regular reporting to the ICT steering committee ensures transparency and accountability.
ICT planning aligned with the department’s strategic objectives is paramount. Departments must clearly articulate how ICT will support the achievement of targets and objectives. By incorporating digitalization projects into the strategic plan, departments can effectively prioritize initiatives, set annual targets, and measure outcomes.
To truly grow South Africa together for a capable and ethical public service, we must embrace the transformative power of ICT. By optimizing expenditure, strengthening governance structures, and investing in capacity-building, we can unlock the potential of digital technologies and pave the way for a more efficient and citizen-centric public service.
The DPSA remain committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to drive ICT transformation. Together, we can build a digital future that empowers our public service to deliver on its mandate while fostering transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Mr Zaid Aboobaker is the Acting Deputy Director General of the e-Government Services and Information Management at the Department of Public Service and Administration.
