The Director of Resources submitted a report that provided an update on, and proposals regarding the Core Business Transformation (CBT) Programme, which aimed to transform Finance, Procurement, HR and Payroll activities across the Council. Specifically, the report sought approval to progress with phase 1 of the programme’s delivery which was to replace the finance system, together with other related approvals to facilitate this.
In considering the report, as presented by the Executive Member for Resources, the Board recognised the need to replace the current finance system, which was phase 1 of the programme, as recommended in the report.
Following consideration of Appendix A to the submitted report designated as being exempt from publication under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3), which was considered in private at the conclusion of the public part of the meeting, it was
RESOLVED –
(a) That approval be given for the Core Business Transformation Programme to proceed with phase 1 of delivery, with the required additional Authority to Spend of £9.47m, funded from Capital Receipts, also being approved; with the total cost estimate to deliver Phase 1 being £10.48m;
(b) That the change for the overall technical requirement from a single Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution to a core technology platform, plus a number of best of breed applications in order to better meet the Council’s requirements now and in the future, be noted, with it also being noted that this approach will enable the Council to benefit from the rapidly changing technology market;
(c) That it be noted that all of the programme costs, whether revenue or capital are included under the banner of transformational change, and as such can be capitalised under the Government’s Flexible Use of Capital Receipts Directive; with it also being noted that this funding source cannot be used to cover frontline revenue costs;
(d) That it be noted that Phase 1 is part of a wider programme of works estimated to cost £18.48m, inclusive of phase 1; with it also being noted that additional approvals will be sought for the subsequent phases;
(e) That it be noted that the Chief Officer (Financial Services) is the responsible officer for the procurement and implementation of phase 1 of the programme which is focused upon Financial Services; with it also being noted that the cross-Council programme board, chaired by the Chief Officer (Financial Services), will continue to provide oversight and challenge, and that Internal Audit are also reviewing such matters on a 3-monthly cycle and providing recommendations to the programme board.