Are We There Yet?

Digital transformation across the public sector has stalled. After over 25 years of considerable time, money, and effort at national, state, and local levels, we’re still not ‘there’ yet.

The reason is that successive waves of investment in digital transformation have focused largely on improving the transactional functions and activities of the government. They have failed to embrace a bigger challenge – the need for governing and government to rethink a new ‘theory of the business’ – which that same revolution has caused and to which it is an inescapable part of the answer.

This is a unique, timely, and distinctly Australian look at a global phenomenon by two ‘reflective practitioners’. Their personal and practical experience of digital transformation in government and the public sector in Australia suggests it is a story missing half its plot.

Packed full of insights from government and digital leaders from around Australia and across the world, this is a much-needed practical guide for public servants and leaders in any jurisdiction. It contains insights and ideas about the way digital technologies, and their associated tools, platforms, and cultures are changing the business of governing and the design and delivery of public policy and services.

About the Author

Martin Stewart-Weeks is an independent advisor, writer and facilitator who works at the intersection of public sector, policy, technology and innovation. He has worked extensively with Ministers and in policy roles Commonwealth and NSW Governments and has held leadership roles for strategy and innovation in the public sector with Cisco, Deloitte and PwC.

Simon Cooper is a Director who specialises in the digital transformation government and customer service strategy for a big four consultancy. He has worked with 40+ government agencies in Australia and around the world as a consultant and during a decade as a public servant in the UK.