The Joint IT Committee of Brent, Lewisham, and Southwark councils convened to discuss updates on the Shared Technology Service, including performance metrics and cybersecurity. The committee also reviewed strategic plans for technology and cybersecurity for the coming years.

Shared Technology Service Update Report

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the performance of the Shared ICT Service. This report was expected to detail key performance indicators and provide an overview of the service's progress. It was also anticipated to cover updates on various projects, including the migration to O2 for mobile contracts, the completion of the Private Cloud Project, and the progress of the Laptop Refresh contract with CDW. Further details were expected on the Microsoft Intune pilots and the award of the Managed XDR Cybersecurity Response Service contract. The report was also to provide an update on service level performance, including Priority 1, 2, 3, and 4 incidents and requests, as well as onsite support and telephony services. Additionally, information on user experience, overall call statistics, service improvements, risks, audits, and the technology roadmap was scheduled for discussion.

Shared Technology Service Cyber Security Update Report

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a review of the Shared Technology Service's cybersecurity status, threats, and mitigation strategies. This report was expected to outline the approach to defending against evolving cyber threats, deterring hostile activities, developing coordinated responses to risks, and reacting to attacks. The report was also to detail the STS Cyber Security Strategy for 2024-2026, including plans for future laptop design and the implementation of Microsoft's biometric authentication. The committee was to be briefed on efforts to protect against privilege escalation in cloud and on-premise environments and the use of CrowdStrike's identity protection tool.

Technology Roadmap and Strategy Updates

The committee was scheduled to review the STS Technology Roadmap for the next six months, which includes plans for upgrading laptops to Windows 11 and formulating a future IT Modernisation investment plan for 2026-2030. The STS Strategy 2024-26 and the STS Cyber Strategy 2024-26 were also presented for approval. These documents outline the strategic direction for the shared service, focusing on delivering an outstanding, secure, reliable, and cost-conscious technology service.

Council Updates

Updates were also anticipated from individual councils on their digital programmes. Brent Council was expected to provide an update on its digital strategy, including achievements in connectivity, resident account registration, call reductions, M365 rollout, and the deployment of RPA and chatbots. Lewisham Council was to share updates on its Digital Product & Development team's objectives, applications and IT procurement strategy, and key ICT accomplishments and initiatives. Southwark Council was to report on its digital transformation journey, including the launch of its new council website, Cyber Security Training platform, Modern Data Platform dashboards, and Digital Skills Hub. Updates on the ERP system replacement, WiFi infrastructure upgrades, Microsoft Licensing, and the implementation of a new Project Management Office were also expected.