Defra

Project Context

The ‘Synergy Programme’ was in the process of developing a new Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to set the framework for collaboration among four government departments as they moved towards implementing a new ERP across the departments. To ensure success, it was going to be crucial to adopt a spirit of collaboration and cooperation. When 9FT entered, the existing MoA did not reference ways of working together or the management of third-party data, which were essential for the project's success.

Project Delivery

Nine Feet Tall's role was to provide critical advisory support and counsel. This included improving the MOA so that it was much clearer on the spirit of working in partnership. Nine Feet Tall also developed a governance RACI model to define roles and responsibilities within the new shared services organisation that would be set up through Synergy. This initiative represented a new way of working for the four large government departments, tasked with collectively delivering back-office shared services for approximately 250,000 Civil Servants. Nine Feet Tall ensured decision-making processes were effective, efficient, and inclusive of the right people. This governance framework would reassure the Permanent Secretaries of each department that decisions complied with necessary legislation and they could effectively discharge their duties. As part of the core delivery, Nine Feet Tall added partnership working proposals to the MoA, and developed both the terms of reference and the RACI model for the shared services organisation. Our advisory service was designed to challenge, test, and assure the development of the MOA, acting as a critical friend throughout the process.

Project Outcomes

Nine Feet Tall successfully added partnership working proposals to the MoA. We also developed comprehensive terms of reference for the shared services organisation, and created a detailed RACI model. These deliverables ensured the new shared services setup had a clear framework for cooperation and decision-making.

Overall, the success of the project was measured by the readiness of the MoA and governance structures to facilitate effective inter-departmental collaboration. The project demonstrated Nine Feet Tall's ability to provide critical advisory support and develop governance frameworks that support large-scale government initiatives, ensuring they are built on principles of partnership and cooperation.