A unit within the UK government’s Cabinet Office. It was established in 2011 as part of the Efficiency and Reform Group (ERG) to lead the digital transformation of government services and improve how the government delivers online services to citizens. Key responsibilities of GDS:
- Digital Strategy: Developing and implementing the government’s digital strategy, which aims to make government services more user-friendly, efficient, and cost-effective.
- GOV.UK: Managing and developing the government’s central website, GOV.UK, which provides a single point of access to government services and information.
- Digital Standards: Setting standards and guidelines for digital services across government, ensuring consistency, accessibility, and user-centered design.
- Digital Skills: Supporting the development of digital skills and capabilities within the civil service, promoting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
- Digital Identity: Leading the development of a secure and user-friendly digital identity system for accessing government services online.
- Data: Promoting the use of open data and data science to improve government decision-making and service delivery.
- Technology: Providing guidance and support on the use of technology within government, including cloud computing, agile development, and IT infrastructure.
GDS has played a significant role in transforming the way the UK government delivers digital services to citizens. It has championed a user-centered approach, focusing on understanding user needs and designing services that are simple, intuitive, and accessible.
Key achievements of GDS include:
- The development of GOV.UK, which has become a global model for government digital services
- The creation of the Digital Service Standard, a set of criteria for ensuring the quality and consistency of digital services across government
- The establishment of the Government as a Platform (GaaP) program, which provides common tools and infrastructure for building digital services
- The promotion of agile development and continuous improvement within government IT projects
GDS has influenced the digital transformation of governments around the world, with many countries adopting similar approaches and principles. It continues to play a central role in driving the UK government’s digital agenda and improving the delivery of public services in the digital age.
Additional Acronyms for GDS
- GDS - Global Distribution System