The UK Government has welcomed cloud solutions within its broader digital transformation plans. The Government Digital Service (GDS) has led the transition of migrating government projects to the cloud. The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has created a series of frameworks to enable the procurement of cloud services. The UK government intends to implement a cloud-first approach, encouraging organisations to prioritise cloud solutions over legacy IT systems.
The UK Defence market is set for a significant transformation towards cloud services, intending to harness the potential of data and attract the best talent. Over the last few years, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has made significant steps in adopting the cloud via its MODCloud system, generating cost savings, and enhancing data access and security. The real value lies in the consistent availability of cloud services available.
The latest Cloud Strategic Roadmap for Defence reinforces the ambition and highlights how the Defence industry is adapting to new technologies. Harnessing the full potential of data requires exploring and enhancing information using API and emerging technologies like AI and machine learning. By applying these techniques, the clear presentation of information supports decision-makers with their intended outcomes. Business leaders can then deliver comprehensive, timely, actionable insights to make informed decisions.
The MoD, for example, is on a digital transformation journey, with more projects expected, offering a range of exciting opportunities. Cloud adoption is a significant driver of accelerated and focused business results. Leveraging these services provides businesses with a competitive advantage. Companies utilising the cloud can adapt and scale when necessary to meet changing demands and only pay for usage. The ability to rapidly expand processes during periods of higher demand, virtually no downtime due to multiple data centres, enhanced value, decreased risk and the ability to apply processes across the entire business are just a few of the benefits available.
Data fusion is a prominent theme this year, and data has already become a strategic asset. The MoD is on a journey towards excellence in data management as it lays the foundations to deliver the best available data capability. The Data Strategy for Defence provides an overview of how this is evolving.
Digital skills continue to be in high demand. In Defence, there will be an ongoing need for a diverse range of digital talent. Fulfilling this mix requires a culture setting and being proactive about an inclusive workplace. It’s all about attracting the right people, and the leaders who can achieve this and create this culture will generate the best digital outcomes.
With the accelerated transition towards cloud services, it’s critical to have a multi-skilled team that is technically capable and well-balanced with the right experience. The need for professionals that can create solutions to current and new challenges is essential. Defence organisations require the technology and skills to drive innovation, continue adapting and prioritise their business goals. Defence organisations also require constant access to data across sea, land, air and space and must be aware of the ever-growing threat of cyber challenges.
Establishing these data sets, selecting the appropriate technology and acquiring the right people to deliver is the core component of transformation in Defence this year. Businesses will continue to be the driving force, while technology becomes the facilitator and the people remain the supervisors.
