Process maps to transformation: Rethinking workflows in Kensington and Chelsea

As public sector leaders modernise government services, optimising behind-the-scenes processes and operations is crucial to fully realising the benefits of an ever-expanding suite of new technologies.

That’s the focus of a discussion table at the upcoming Government Transformation Summit  (24-25 June, Church House, Westminster) on Process Improvement, co-hosted by Ade Bamigboye, Chief Technology Officer at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and Olivia Labonté, Deputy Director of Performance & Assurance at the Government Digital Service.

Too often, outdated systems, siloed workflows, and rigid procedures slow progress. The discussion aims to explore how departments can streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and modernise the way they work, laying the foundation for more responsive services and better outcomes for all.

For Bamigboye, these themes are close to home. He and his team at Kensington and Chelsea are working on developing a clearer understanding of how their organisation actually works. “We’re extending the use of process modelling and simulation,” he explains, “and integrating that with our corporate technology assets catalogue. It’s about developing a deeper understanding of how our organisation works so that we can really focus our transformation efforts.”

Bamigboye is particularly keen to challenge the traditional view of process modelling as a static or siloed activity. “It’s about the value, and challenges, that come with pivoting an organisation to seeing process modelling as more than just drawing static pictures of some of the workflows,” he says. 

During the discussion, Bamigboye will share how his team has navigated process modelling and the benefits they’re already seeing. His advice for other leaders? Keep it pragmatic. “Start small, capture the required detail as you go so that you can show the value of simulation early and relate that to the ability to assess and evaluate transformation approaches.”

He’s also looking forward to hearing how peers are approaching the broader transformation agenda - especially given the buzz around artificial intelligence and automation. “We are inundated with coverage and initiatives that focus on AI as a key transformation agent,” he says, “but given the cost, limited access to funding and technology skills gaps, what do people really think the transformation focus should be over the coming year?”

For those attending the Government Transformation Summit, the Process Improvement discussion table promises a grounded and honest conversation about the real work of improving processes - and the ripple effect that can have on government performance at large. If you’re not already registered (it’s free to attend for public sector colleagues), you can sign up below.