The Australian Government is investing heavily in digital transformation to better serve Australians’ needs in the digital era. The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has introduced a compulsory training programme for Senior Responsible Officials (SROs) overseeing digital projects to guarantee the success of these initiatives.
The DTA will deliver the program through the Australian Public Service (APS) Academy. The programme aims to provide SROs with the skills and experience needed to effectively handle the complexities of digital projects. High-ranking officials within the Australian government are responsible for ensuring that digital projects meet the expected benefits for individuals and businesses. These officials are known as SROs.
The training program mimics a condensed digital project, covering everything from developing a business case for investment to closing the project. Participants must collaborate to effectively manage and oversee the project throughout its duration. Last year, after piloting the program, an overwhelming majority of participants, 91% to be exact, found the simulation approach highly beneficial and supportive of their learning.
The programme also incorporates insights from recent digital projects and prioritises the enhancement of participants’ business skills. Participants will focus on fostering lasting connections to facilitate continuous learning and growth.
“We know that having leaders with the right skills and experience is fundamental to delivering successful digital projects,” emphasises Jamie Whitcombe, Branch Manager of Portfolio Assurance. The programme aims to help SROs maintain a strong focus on the key factors necessary for project success. This includes effectively utilising assurance, implementing best practices in benefits management, and adopting established methods for digital design and delivery, as the Australian Government Architecture outlines.
Feedback from the pilot programme indicated that participants were able to apply best practices and share valuable experiences with each other, which proved to be both enabling and challenging. One participant said, “I think the content and delivery was great. It was extremely useful in improving my understanding of project governance and role of the Senior Responsible Officer, and I am now much more confident in undertaking this role.” Another participant added, “This kind of programme should be recommended to ensure all senior leaders have the necessary understanding of governing ICT projects.”
The increasing focus on digital transformation necessitates the implementation of the SRO programme to equip the APS with the necessary capabilities to effectively plan and execute digital projects. The program aims to ensure the success of digital projects throughout the Australian government by equipping senior leaders with the necessary skills and experience.