25/07/06 National Audit Office report into central government innovation published

The first report into operational innovation in central government has found that, although a deep rooted culture of risk aversion is being tackled and improvements in quality and efficiency of service are being made, government bodies could still secure greater benefits and efficiencies with more innovative and progressive approaches. This report examines 125 innovative developments, nominated by 85 government bodies, to improve their administrative and organisational practices. A diverse range of innovations was submitted, with most involving improvements to performance management, new IT or web services or other technological changes. Some of the innovations have taken years to deliver and cost millions of pounds, although the average cost was under £1 million and the timeframe was 28 months.

NAO Press Notice