The project issues
The Council wished to implement a Content Management System (CMS) to improve their website provision.
To assess the requirements of Departments and Service Areas for a CMS that will become the main authoring tool for the Council's website and intranet and to assess how this would assist Council in achieving its BVPI157 and Priority Outcome targets.
To provide a written report and presentation that would inform a subsequent procurement project.
To provide general advice on procuring a CMS and an overview of the market including hosting options.
The Socitm Consulting solution
We consulted internally with members, managers and staff to discover precisely what the issues were with the current facilities and what functionality and options should be available in any new system.
This was achieved by way of four days dedicated to structured interviews and focus groups based around the following questions:
What use is currently made of the intranet/internet?
In what areas could/should usage be increased/improved?
What are the blocks currently stopping development and increased use?
What would be the components of an 'ideal' system?
How much time / effort should / would your service area be able to contribute to ensure content is maintained?
To what extent should content be maintained centrally (e.g. via a core team) or devolved?
The benefits to the client
The Council was able to obtain a clear and impartial view of market options and the opinions of internal stakeholders concerning a new CMS and how this might help it achieve its targets.
By following our advice to consult with as many users as possible before coming to a final decision, the Council was able to secure 'buy-in' from them which will help it make the most from its investment in a new CMS.
Project identification
Client organisation: Kings Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council
Contact: Stephen Howes, Business Development Consultant, Socitm Consulting, 01270 812900, stephen.howes@socitm.gov.uk
Lead consultant: andy.grant@socitm.gov.uk
Project no: 4950