Firms ‘unsure on tech advances’

MOST company directors are sceptical about the ability of the public sector to take advantage of technological advances such as automation and believe the Government does not make good enough use of private sector expertise, a study shows.

A survey of 1,000 business leaders found that three out of five believed digital services run by the public sector were inferior to those created by private firms.

The Institute of Directors (IoD) said its research revealed that most of its members wanted the Government to improve the way it works with technology companies.

Director general Stephen Martin said: “While there has been some improvement in recent years, business leaders still feel the public sector is lagging well behind when compared against the innovation we’ve seen from companies.

“Our members are both providers and users of Government digital services. They are very keen that the Government makes better use of the knowledge and experience that exists in businesses of all sizes. The gains could be not only better and more cost-efficient services, but also reduced time wasted on form-filling for companies.

“Raising the UK’s productivity is the driving force behind the Government’s economic policy, so they should be looking for opportunities to work with the private sector to improve their digital offering.

“This could make life easier for small firms in particular, freeing up time for our members to spend improving their businesses.”