Andrew Western MP opens Government Transformation Week

“We cannot afford to stand still” was the resounding message of Andrew Western MP’s speech as he kicked off the Government Transformation Expo this morning.

Andrew Western, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transformation at the Department for Work and Pensions delivered the opening speech at the Government Transformation Summit. Earlier in the day, Mr Western cut the ribbon to open the Government Transformation Expo.

Government digital transformation leaders and innovative solutions providers collide at the Government Transformation Summit to discuss and collaborate on public sector digital transformation delivery.  

Mr Western’s speech began with a call to action for all at the summit to embrace the possibilities of new technologies and AI to effectively address the evolving challenges faced by governments. The key is to have longevity in mind, a “true long-term modernisation” of the government’s legacy systems to set the public sector up for future success.

These technological possibilities lie in improving NHS systems, delivering clean energy targets or even using AI to support lesson planning in the education sector.   

In order to create successful digital transformation “humans must remain at the heart of what we do” reminds Mr Western. Focusing on the customer is central to his approach, and he accentuates the importance of providing effective self-service systems, easier navigation and a more personalised approach in order to deliver faster and better decisions.     

In his own department, Mr Western outlined three priorities reflecting this focus on the individual customers:

• Revamping digital services to improve customers online experience 
• Strengthened support for the vulnerable 
• More responsive and accessible customer communications     

The importance of cross departmental implementation of improved digital systems was highlighted by Mr Western. He emphasised that prioritising digital transformation across departments is the way to serve citizens, who will be involved with many services across their lives.  

Andrew Western also took part in Government Transformation Summit’s unique discussion tables, these themed small-group discussions facilitate meaningful conversations between speakers, delegates, and industry experts, driving change. 

Ultimately, Mr Western spotlighted the potential realms for unlocking digital potential across government, explaining that the future should allow all citizens to experience “healthier, wealthier and more fulfilling lives.”