Decisions Made

It is essential that the organisation upgrades to Windows 10 before January 2020 to ensure all applications and operating systems are fully supported by Microsoft and therefore compliant with PSN standards.
The current operating system, Windows 7, needs to be removed from the CBC network, which means either upgrading or replacing all existing windows 7 devices. As the wider Transformation Programme includes the rollout of new, mobile devices such as laptops and tablets, the decision has been made to use the device rollout project as a means to deliver the rollout of Windows 10.
The provision of new laptops and tablets supports the Transformation Programme and its aims in providing staff across the organisation, the technology they need to work in new ways.
The key objectives are to:
1.To ensure every desktop/laptop operating systems and applications are fully supported prior to Jan 2020.
2.To ensure all new hardware is fully compliant with transformation plan objectives
Information and background
The Council’s ambition to move to a more agile and flexible work-force requires better, more flexible technology solutions including the user devices. Traditionally laptops have been the flexible solution to fixed desktops as they are designed to be mobile. However, technologically there are now other more flexible devices that offer greater options for an agile workforce; smart phones, tablets and hybrid 2-in-1 devices that offer both laptop and tablet capabilities.
The 2-in-1 device is designed to be as portable as a tablet, offering touch screen, 4G connectivity and optional stylus devices, while having a ‘fold away’ keyboard and the usual connectivity ports of a laptop; they can be used in the field, on the go, as effectively as in the office. These devices are based on the latest technology specifications and therefore offer a longer working life cycle over the current specification of traditional laptops, typically 1 – 2 years longer. While the 2-in-1 offers greater flexibility and are “future proofed” for the needs of the Council in terms of an agile and flexible work-force, the trade-off is cost; these devices are more expensive than traditional laptops.

The Head Digital and Transformation, in consultation with the Deputy Chief Executive and the Cabinet Member for Resources has made the decision to procure and deploy 325 Hybrid devices as per the recommendation contained within the business case.