NZ Government – The Need to do More with Less
Finance Minister Nicola Willis recently announced a directive to slash annual public service spending by $1.5 billion, calling on all government departments to identify savings.
This directive comes as part of the new government's broader agenda to streamline operations and optimise resource allocation.
The New Zealand government is also actively investing in data-driven initiatives to drive efficiency and effectiveness across the public sector.
As part of this commitment, the government has allocated significant resources to various data and digital health projects. In the 2022 budget, the government earmarked over $600 million for investment in these projects over the next four years. This substantial investment underscores the government's recognition of the pivotal role that data plays in transforming service delivery and driving operational excellence.
Data Driven
There are several key elements to a governmental data strategy which serves as a guide for all government departments:
- Data Investment Plan: Central to the government's data strategy is the Data Investment Plan, a comprehensive 10-year roadmap that guides investment decisions and priorities in data initiatives. Updated periodically, this plan helps agencies allocate resources effectively and make informed decisions about existing assets. By aligning investments with strategic objectives, agencies can maximise the impact of their data initiatives and drive tangible results.
- Data Science Platform: Additionally, The Strategic Science Investment Fund (SSIF) Data Science platform serves as a catalyst for data science research and innovation. This platform not only supports innovative research but also delivers on the government's broader data science investment goals. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, the SSIF Data Science platform enables agencies to leverage data science capabilities to address complex challenges and drive meaningful outcomes.
- Government Chief Data Steward: Furthermore, the Government Chief Data Steward (GCDS) plays a pivotal role in setting standards and driving adherence to best practices across the public sector. With the authority to make standards mandatory, the GCDS ensures consistency and interoperability in data management practices, with goals to foster a culture of excellence and accountability.
What Can Agencies Do?
The government has set the direction and priorities, including cost-savings and improved services. This may seem like a contradiction of requirements for agencies, but it doesn’t have to be. Leaders of government agencies have a unique opportunity to drive improvements and efficiencies at the same time as creating considerable savings.
By leveraging data and Business Intelligence (BI) it is possible to identify savings, streamline processes, and enhance decision-making, enabling resources to be maximised and priorities to be identified.
By harnessing the power of data driven decision making, agencies can uncover inefficiencies, optimise resource allocation, and drive continuous improvement.
BI and Analytics enables agencies to measure and monitor measures, metrics and key performance indicators across processes, allowing for targeted interventions and optimisation strategies. Moreover, by adopting fact-based decision-making, agencies can mitigate risks, capitalise on opportunities, and deliver better outcomes for NZ Inc.
As New Zealand’s government agencies embark on their journey to achieve significant cost savings, the strategic investment in data and analytics will be instrumental in driving efficiency and effectiveness. By embracing data-driven innovation and leveraging BI tools, agencies can unlock new opportunities for optimisation, delivering value for taxpayers and citizens alike.
Read how Sport NZ has driven efficiencies through adopting a Business Intelligence approach.
Book a free call to discuss how Business Intelligence (BI) could help you.