22 As GDS embarks on the next phase of its work to support transformation in government, we recommend that:
a Roles, responsibilities and plans for delivering the new transformation strategy are more clearly defined. GDS, departments and other parts of the centre of government should clarify responsibilities for transformation, including the role of the Transformation Peer Group. GDS should undertake a further phase of planning with clear costs, timescales and monitoring arrangements.
b GDS works closely with the rest of government to establish common principles for balancing departmental and cross-government priorities. GDS should develop a more systematic analysis of what needs to be done centrally rather than by departments, in particular in strengthening government's approach to the effective use and management of data. It should review its continuing development of central infrastructure such as Verify to ensure that it meets a proven need.
c GDS improves the clarity, relevance and consistency of guidance and technical standards. It should work with departments to develop more detailed technical standards, in particular relating to maintaining or migrating existing systems. It should make clear the relative status of guidance documents and publish how and why changes are made over time.
d GDS should ensure consistent monitoring and robust assurance of performance and spending. It should track performance against clear technical and programme measures, working with the centre of government to establish proportionate but robust approvals and controls over spending.