The Scottish Government has established a new Digital Capability Advisory Group (DCAG) to develop Scotland’s digital capability in its public and third sectors.

In partnership with the Scottish Digital Academy and the Digital Office for Scottish Local Government, the DCAG will operate under the Scottish Government’s Digital Directorate.

The group will also act as the advisory and governance body for the Scottish Digital Academy, which provides guidance and learning to improve digital skills across the public sector.

The DCAG is a development on the Stakeholder’s forum of the Scottish Digital Academy, with guiding principles involving improving digital skills and talent, as well as working collaboratively and ensuring the cohesion of concrete actions and national strategy.

The group defined digital capability – its prime ambition – by digital, data, and technology skills underpinning the necessary people and infrastructure to support a thriving digital ecosystem,

The DCAG’s objectives include a range of supportive initiatives, including providing advice and guidance to learning and training with a focus on collective cross-sectional collaboration in procurement activity.

Providing guidance on matters related to digital capability, including profession management and professional learning is one of of the groups’ key objectives.

It is also set to advocate for the adoption of the Digital Scotland Service Manual’s resources and best practices while acting as a ‘critical friend’ in challenging existing systems and recommending improvements.

It will also be tasked with ensuring the Scottish Government is informed on major developments in transformation programmes, as well as offering insights on trends in funding and opportunities for digital jobs and organisations.

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“We’re all aware of the challenges that the public sector faces over the next few years and the need to continue to improve digital public services,” Lee Dunn, head of the Scottish Digital Academy said.

“The advisory group is one approach that we’re taking to bring organisations together to align direction, coordinate effort and share resources.”

Verity Hislop, senior project manager, Digital Office for Scottish Local Government said, “A Digital Capability Advisory Group in the public sector not only drives informed decision-making but also promotes cost savings and operational efficiency.

“By leveraging shared resources and cross-functional expertise, it reduces duplication of efforts and encourages collaboration. This leads to streamlined processes, optimised use of existing capabilities, and more effective solutions to complex challenges, ensuring that public services are both innovative and cost-effective.”