Launch of new CIPFA publication 'Emerging trends in the context of shared services'

CIPFA, in conjunction with Capita and Oracle are launching an insightful new book focusing on emerging trends in shared services. For use by local authorities, the book discusses best practice in financial management with a view to helping local councils to benchmark both their existing practices and their expectations against market trends. It provides guidance designed to help councils to seek out, meet and take the next steps with potential shared service partners. The publication will be officially launched by the author John Thornton at the Capita Local Government and Social Housing Conference on 24 April at the Chesford Grange Hotel, Warwickshire.

"Citizens and communities' expectations continue to grow for local services but resources do not expand at the same rate. Councils consequently need to challenge traditional methods of service delivery both by building on good practice and innovating - sharing resources and services being a prime means of achieving more for less", commented John Tizard, Group Director of Government and Business Engagement, The Capita Group Plc.

Alan Edwards, Chair of the CIPFA IT Panel and Partner, Government Advisory, KPMG LLP, said: "The time is right for the shared services approach to take centre stage. Many local authorities have already done a great deal to move in this direction but there is still a long way. This book could help them to take the next step."

"The emphasis to date on shared services has all been about efficiency. This highly practical publication, from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, shifts the emphasis to effectiveness. The IT Panel has shown how a shared approach to delivering leading practice can generate huge benefits for local government, its employees and its customers."

"The business case for local authorities to share services could not be stronger, given the prospect of the tightest Spending Review in years and the increasing need to balance spend with citizen service," said Andy Smith, Senior Director, Public Services, Oracle UK. "The journey to a shared services model is not always an easy one due to the challenges in developing the vision, finding the right partners and securing the organisational and political agreement. This book makes an important contribution to help ease this transition."

The publication was researched and written by John Thornton, an independent adviser, writer and broadcaster on business transformation, egovernment and innovation. It includes shared services case studies from the London Borough of Lambeth, London Borough of Bexley, Wokingham Borough Council, Coventry Shared Service Centre.

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