To develop a Northern Ireland Open Government Strategy and redefine the co-creation process (GBNIR0001)

Commitment ID

GBNIR0001

Commitment Title

To develop a Northern Ireland Open Government Strategy and redefine the co-creation process

Problem

NICS does not currently have an Open Government Strategy. This is needed to embed open government principles across government. We must articulate a clear vision to ensure there is a collective, agreed understanding of open government. This includes understanding the value of open government, the methods available and the benefits of improved transparency, accountability and citizen participation, for both government and the citizen. Clear and consistent messaging is key to increase support for open government across NICS and amongst its partners and stakeholders, whilst securing buy-in to OGIG processes from government departments. Defining roles and responsibilities in delivering the Open Government Strategy will ensure co-creation processes are clearly outlined and recorded. We also need to design a process involving citizens in generating commitment ideas for future Local Action Plans and explore how open government commitments might link to the Programme for Government and SDGs.

Status quo

The Northern Ireland open government agenda at present lacks strategic direction and vision, and understanding of how the co-creation process could be improved. The current Terms of Reference for the Open Government Implementation Group (OGIG) and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved, could be redefined/updated to reflect new thinking and a new strategic direction. Research is needed to set a baseline for understanding, awareness and the barriers to open government and a communications plan must include education and awareness activity for all staff across NICS and, where appropriate, amongst external stakeholders. In addition, adequate monitoring and evaluation processes must be put in place to allow for year on year improvements across the open government agenda. An Open Government Strategy would allow OGIG to recalibrate its approach to open government and transparency and set new foundations upon which to move forward, together.

Action

The commitment is to develop a NICS Open Government Strategy. This will entail:

• Setting aims and objectives and establishing a strategic vision.
• Reviewing/refreshing the membership, roles and responsibilities and terms of reference of the OGIG.
• Benchmarking the understanding and awareness of Open Government across the NICS departments. Using the research, produce a communications and education plan to champion open government and open data. This will showcase the good work already going on within the NICS, seek to promote a culture of openness and help to ensure staff understand its value and merit.
• Identifying internal opportunities to promote and educate staff on the rationale and benefits of Open Government work e.g. intranet stories, staff webinars on best practice, case studies, overcoming challenges, NICS events.
• Identifying external communications and education opportunities with press offices and in conjunction with OGIG, OGN and OGP.

How will the commitment contribute to solving the public problem described above?

This commitment will help ensure Northern Ireland Government:

• Has the right people and processes in place to promote and deliver against the open government and transparency agenda across the Northern Ireland Civil Service.
• Builds on the good work and progress to date of the Open Government Implementation Group.
• Embeds Open Government and Open Data practices in NICS, encouraging a culture of openness and transparency to develop, and increase the amount and type of information made available.
• Promotes staff buy-in at all levels.
• Makes the publishing of NICS information the norm rather than the exception.
• Is recognised as being open and transparent.

What long-term goal as identified in your Open Government Strategy does this commitment relate to?

The long term goal is to develop a more strategic approach to open government and transparency, by setting a defined direction and establishing a strategic vision. Stakeholder education and awareness activity will be an important element to increase participation in the open government agenda. Roles and responsibilities of the OGIG must be clarified and support given to ensure staff are sufficiently prepared to carry out their full duties within the open government process.

Primary Policy Area

Regulatory Governance

Primary Sector

Cross-sectoral

What OGP value is this commitment relevant to?