Last month in my blog I advocated a change of name for The Digital Transformation Office (DTO), and proposed it should be called The Government Transformation Office. Well, it got its name change, though not the one I proposed – the DTO is to become The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA). So what’s new and what’s the significance of the change?

What’s new?

Last week in a speech to the Australian Information Industries Association at the National Press Club, Angus Taylor, Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation, signaled major changes to how the government intends to pursue its digital transformation agenda.

The DTO will morph into the DTA, with big changes involved not just a rebadging. A new leader has been appointed – Nerida O’Loughlin, currently a deputy secretary for the Department of Communications and the Arts, will take over as leader from Paul Shetler, who is now Chief Digital Officer. (Whether that is a high-powered advisory role or a euphemism for “Digital Special Projects Officer” remains to be seen.)

Department of Finance functions related to ICT policy and ICT procurement will move to the DTA, reflecting a broader and more strategic approach. There is also talk of a whole-of-government PMO function being a part of the mix following PM&C and Finance work in that area.

While there are speeches and media commentary available, precise details of the structure and functions of the DTA have not yet been released. What is clear however is that this is a big deal – if you are in the business of digital transformation in the APS you need to watch this unfold very closely.

What’s The Significance Of The Change?

I was present at the AIIA lunch where Angus Taylor spoke, and I found what he said very heartening.

I haven’t seen a transcript of the speech, but I can assure you he used the “B-word” many times – benefits, benefits, and benefits. Did I mention benefits?! It was wonderful to hear an elected member of the government stand-up and speak passionately and eloquently about benefits, business cases and programme management – and yes, he clearly knew exactly what those terms meant and used them in the same way as a competent programme or project management professional.

I have written several blogs on the topic of digital transformation, but one thing is clear: if you don’t know how to deliver benefits through programme management you might want to re-think your digital career. It’ll be interesting to see who doesn’t come back after the Christmas holidays this year.

Want To Know More About Managing Digital Transformation?

If you would like to know more about using programme management or project management to manage digital (government) transformation in the APS, please call me personally on 0407 404 688 or email me at john.howarth@tannerjames.com.au. I would be very happy to come to meet you, answer questions and provide further information.

What Do You Think?

Please feel free to comment on the blog itself or via LinkedIn.