New Efficiency and Reform Group ICT strategy advisor appointed

A 'Big Society' ICT pioneer in local government has been hired on a short-term basis to provide input into the next steps for overall central government technology.

The individual, Liam Maxwell, is currently lead member for policy and performance at the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead and councillor for the Eton and Windsor Castle ward.

Now he's also been engaged by the Efficiency and Reform Group (ERG) within the Cabinet Office for a period of 11 months (starting in September) to provide expertise on how government can use innovative new technology to deliver better, cheaper solutions.

During this engagement, Maxwell will help to develop ideas for how technology can develop new, more flexible ways of delivery in government; increase the drive towards open standards and open source software; help SMEs to enter the government marketplace; and maintain a horizon scan of future technologies and methods.

"Liam's insight and knowledge will make him a valuable source to the team over the coming year," claimed Government Chief Operating Officer, Ian Watmore.

"He has a strong track record of delivering success in government ICT and he also brings significant experience of turning the theory into practice."

Government information and communications technology is vital for the delivery of efficient, cost-effective public services which are responsive to the needs of citizens and businesses, claimed the Department.

Windsor and Maidenhead is a "vanguard community" for Prime Minister David Cameron's Big Society approach, which is predicated on public services being delivered by a wider section of providers than at present.