The opportunities and challenges around data transformation were under the spotlight at the latest Think Data for Government event in London.
“It is fantastic to see such a big turnout for this Think Data for Government conference,” said Think Digital Partners founder, Matt Stanley. “We are fortunate enough to have such great speakers as Charlie Boundy, Sian Thomas, Dr Laura Gilbert, Giuseppe Sollazzo, Eoin Mulgrew, Dr Shruti Kholi, Simon Mclellan and many more to share their insight with our engaged public sector audience.
“AI was a strong theme coming across in many sessions ahead of our Think AI for Government new launch event next year.”
Highlights:
- In his keynote presentation, chief data officer at Companies House, Charlie Boundy, emphasised the importance of countering misinformation with facts and evidence in digital government. He highlighted the value of Companies House data, estimated at £1-3 billion, and the need for transparency and accuracy. Boundy discussed the impact of social media and AI on spreading disinformation, citing examples like the Southport riots and the US election. He stressed the role of data professionals in providing reliable data, collaborating with communications teams, and being proactive in transparency. He called for bravery in sharing information to build public trust and combat disinformation effectively.
- The first panel discussion focused on AI governance and responsible AI in the UK Government. Dr Iain Brown, head of data science, Northern Europe at SAS said data quality and transparency are critical, while Dr Shruti Kohli, head of data science (innovation & AI) at DWP Digital highlighted DWP’s AI Lighthouse programme, which developed a six-principle framework for responsible AI. Additionally, Laura Petrone, principal analyst – strategic intelligence at GlobalData, raised the need for international standards and certification. The panel agreed on the necessity of proactive measures, data literacy, and synthetic data to address biases. They also stressed the importance of environmental considerations in AI development. The conversation underscored the need for continuous learning, iterative improvement, and collaboration across government and private sectors to navigate AI’s evolving landscape.
- Next, AI and open data were on the agenda – specifically how the UK civil service can leverage them to enhance efficiencies. Key points included the establishment of an evaluator role within the CDDO framework, the challenges of open data evaluation, and the importance of data quality. The panel emphasised the need for diverse input in data governance, secure data sharing mechanisms, and the importance of aligning open data strategies with government missions, such as net zero and skills development.
- Lee Almond OBE, vice president consulting at CGI, joined data expert and conference chair in a fireside chat, Gavin Freeguard, to explore the critical role of data foundations in successful digital transformation. Almond noted the importance of data as a critical organisational asset, second only to people. She discussed the similarities and differences in driving data transformation in public and private sectors, noting that while objectives vary, the core principles remain the same. She advocated for senior sponsorship, clear links to organisational strategy, and incremental, phased changes, alongside evidence-based decision-making and leveraging networks for support.
- The next panel discussion centred on the gap between generative AI (gen AI) and security in the public sector, highlighting the need for skilled workforce and infrastructure. Key points included the evolving skills required in data and cybersecurity, with the gathered experts stressing the importance of foundational machine learning and Python skills. The panel pressed home the need for government departments to upskill their workforce through in-person training and real-world problem-solving. They also discussed the challenges of integrating AI tools without compromising security, the importance of leadership understanding AI limitations, and the balance between in-house development and outsourcing to contractors.
- A presentation by Keegan Rowlands from CACI and Ali Nichol from IOTICS focused on data utilisation in the public sector, which advocated for a more human-centric approach. Rowlands highlighted the UK Government’s significant data collection but noted room for improvement in data sharing and quality. Nichol involved attendees in Slido polls to illustrate collaboration and information sharing. The conversation stressed the importance of federated data sharing, leveraging existing processes, and involving civil servants to avoid pitfalls.
- Following that, data experts from Kensington & Chelsea, Tower Hamlets and Nottingham City Council, alongside the chief digital officer for London gathered to debate using data to unlock local insights (pictured). The London Data Library, launching soon, aims to enhance data sharing and discoverability across the city, addressing issues like homelessness and preschool meal eligibility. The initiative emphasises the need for a federated system, metadata registry, and a collaborative mindset. The discussion also highlighted the importance of senior sponsorship, data standards, and interoperability for effective data use and decision-making in local government.
- Representatives from Scottish Enterprise, DWP and the Cabinet Office discussed data capability and data careers, highlighting the importance of attracting and developing data talent. This included the interlinking of data skills and organisational structures, noting the need for a robust operating model. The panel agreed on the significance of data literacy at all levels and the importance of inclusive job descriptions. They also discussed engaging universities and graduates, emphasising practical experience and the value of neurodivergent individuals in the data field.
- To finish the day, a future of data panel featured experts from 10 Downing St., DWP, Traveline, the Met Office and Adobe, who discussed the evolving role of data in public and private sectors, emphasising the importance of data integration, transparency, and trust. Travel Line’s chief executive, Julie Gray, highlighted efforts to aggregate transport data across the UK, integrating rail and bus ticketing, and launching an e-ticket. Downing St’s director of data science, Dr Laura Gilbert, discussed AI solutions for public services, including a project to address prescription errors. Elsewhere, Simon McLellan from the Met Office focused on weather forecasting and the challenges of data uncertainty. The conversation underscored the need for better data procurement, quality, and user engagement to enhance decision-making and public trust.
Stay tuned to Think Digital Partners in the coming days for more in-depth coverage of the sessions at Think Data for Government.
