| Description | The Guidance Framework for Shared Services aims to provide information, education, guidance and case study examples to those considering Shared Services and to those already on a Shared Services journey. |
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| ISBN | (Web Only) |
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| Official Print Publication Date | |
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| Website Publication Date | December 21, 2007 |
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Executive Summary
The Guidance Framework for Shared Services aims to provide information, education, guidance and case study examples to those considering Shared Services and to those already on a Shared Services journey. It is acknowledged that there are many public sector organisations in Scotland that are already implementing Shared Services and embarking on Shared Services initiatives.
Others are seeking more evidence in the shape of case studies and further direction of the potential benefits that Shared Services can bring to their organisations. The framework provided should not be seen as a single source of guidance as there are many other comprehensive research documents available; some of these are referred to within this framework document.
Transition to Shared Services is a journey that needs careful planning and execution. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the delivery process including customer requirements and the delivery objective(s). The real challenge is in developing a strategy and vision, identifying the most effective business models, and selecting the right people and partners, whilst securing political and organisational agreement to be able to turn the strategy into reality and completing the journey as planned.
The Guidance is set out into 6 sections as follows:
Section 1: Why Shared Services? - This section sets out the background to Shared Services and confirms the opportunities and benefits for Shared Services as well as exploring the challenges and issues that need to be tackled.
Section 2: What are Shared Services? - This section sets out the definition for transformational Shared Services and what can be shared.
Section 3: How have Shared Services been delivered? - This section describes the operating structures and models of how Shared Services may be deployed.
Section 4: Where have Shared Services been delivered? - This section describes the sourcing and location models and identifies how the utilisation of ICT supports flexible choices in these areas.
Section 5: Conclusion and Next Steps - This section provides a summary of the main themes in the document and how to keep this framework current
Section 6: Further Information and Acknowledgements - This section provides additional references for further reading and acknowledgements to source material that is utilised in this framework document.
Appendices A and B : Includes some detailed case studies of successful Shared Services and also provides summary information on other examples of good practice both in Shared Services and other forms of sharing that modernise the public service.