2.14 Changes to GDS's strategy, whether they are major shifts or minor changes, require GDS to reassess its priorities and approach. GDS has several channels for discussions with technology and transformation leaders across government, to support decision-making. In particular:
• Leaders Networks
GDS runs three networks of digital, technology and data leaders, made up of representatives from each main department. Their objectives include supporting delivery of the government's digital strategy; providing a voice for departments in policy development; and providing an opportunity to share learning and best practice.
• Advisory Board
To support it in delivering its strategy, GDS has an Advisory Board made up of external industry experts. The Board meets quarterly and has existed in its current form since April 2016, when it replaced the previous Digital Advisory Board. The terms of reference for the GDS Advisory Board include: supporting and challenging GDS, departments and agencies to ensure that users' needs remain at the forefront of strategy and delivery; and reviewing government's progress and ability to deliver against the commitments made in the new Government Digital Strategy.
2.15 There is evidence that the Advisory Board provides valuable challenge and advice to GDS. For example, in its second meeting, in July 2016, it stressed the need for a 'high-level vision' for GDS, stating that this was essential for it to provide the correct advice.
2.16 In May 2016, GDS carried out a prioritisation exercise, ranking its objectives in order to decide where to allocate resources. The Executive Management Committee used criteria - including alignment with GDS's vision and strategy - to prioritise objectives. The prioritisation exercise was intended to be carried out quarterly, but this was delayed until October 2016 following GDS's change of leadership in the summer.
2.17 However, our review of minutes from the Executive Management Committee found mixed evidence about the level of guidance that GDS is providing on priorities for specific programmes. The minutes for four months from September 2016 noted that the Digital Group (which covers Verify and other common services) had to ask the Board to clarify current priorities, to ensure it assigned staff to the right areas.