APPENDIX B. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Local Directgov Programme?
It is a programme that will improve accessibility to public services via the internet by linking together Directgov and Local Authority online services into a single offering.
How does this compare to other e-Gov programmes worldwide?
Local Directgov is the only Programme which will offer automatic deep linking straight to a Local Authority service or interaction page rather than just a home page.
How much effort will this process require from Local Authorities?
It is our intention to make it as easy as possible for Local Authorities. We are aiming to accept the required data in as many formats as possible, and can convert it into the format we need ourselves. We also offer as much assistance as necessary to Local Authorities wanting to engage with the programme, so they can realise the benefits, regardless of their current level of IT ability.
Put simply, what are the benefits of this deep linking and post code technology?
The benefit of deep linking Directgov to Local Authority services and interactions rather than simply directing people to a homepage, is that the user only has to learn how to navigate one website. It means that they will be able to find the service they want online, without having to know which government department or section delivers it, or even which Local Authority is responsible for it in their location. It will create a vastly improved user experience encouraging more citizens to use more online services. This in turn, means a more efficient Local Authority.
What are the benefits for citizens?
The Local Directgov Programme will enable citizens to access online government services, both locally and nationally, as and when they want, creating a far more efficient and convenient service.
What are the benefits for Local Authorities?
Local Authorities can realise many benefits including increased traffic to their website, increased citizen take-up of online services, improved ability to meet efficiency targets and priority outcomes, simplifying government for the citizen and improved Customer Relationship Management capability for front-line staff.
When will it be available from?
We will have been engaging all Local Authorities from mid October 2005 in order to collect data. The Local Directgov Programme system linking to Local Authority websites will go live in January 2006 with links to a prioritised set of Local Authority services and interactions.
What are the costs of engaging with the Programme for Local Authorities?
There is no direct financial cost. We just need the person responsible for your website to spend a little time liaising with one of our Engagement Team representatives, in order to get all the website data we need to make the links from Directgov to your Local Authority website work.
How much extra work will this require?
Our approach builds on the e-Government Programme that Local Authorities have been investing in over the past few years. It is based on e-government standards and capitalises on the work already undertaken under the BVPI157 targets to e-enable local services.
Local e-Gov finishes in March 2006 – so what happens to LDG after that?
We are not asking Local Authorities to put resources into something that is not sustainable. We will provide the tools, help and knowledge to ensure that these links can be effectively maintained for the future, within a Local Authority’s own IT department.