London Connects All Local Authorities To PSN

London has connected all its local authorities and services to the Public Services Network (PSN), making it the first UK region to do so.

The 33 boroughs in the capital are now fully migrated to the Network via the London PSN scheme, coordinated by London Grid Ltd and powered by Virgin Media Business (VMB.)

The PSN is at the centre of the government’s ICT strategy; it aims to provide a secure, safe network where public services can safely share services.

VMB is a PSN partner and now claims it provides cost-effective communication procurement for public bodies in the London area as part of its London PSN involvement.

The transitioning of the capital’s services and boroughs onto the Network has been completed in just under a year, according to the company.

“It’s been fantastic to see the momentum this project has gained since we kicked off last year,” claimed John Jackson, Camden Council CIO and frequent commentator on public sector IT.

“I am particularly excited by the potential for savings which a shared service of this magnitude could bring.

“Experience to date indicates a cost reduction of between 25-75% is deliverable for products and services delivered in this way which, depending on how develop LondonPSN as a shared service, could top a billion pounds over the next decade,” he added.

Cost Savings and Efficiencies To Benefit Entire Public Sector

Besides local councils, the PSN supports other public organisations such as schools, providing access to essential facilities such as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Government Secure Intranet and the Department of Health (DoH) N3 service.

The government also claims the initiative will encourage data and service sharing across councils, improving efficient, and giving employees more flexible working options.

“Creating one single network for London councils is a huge step in the right direction to a truly connected capital,” claimed Mario Di Mascio, executive sales director at VMB.

“Bringing these boroughs together is not only bringing huge cost savings, but is ensuring that for the first time Londoners can benefit from a completely connected city and its streamlined services,” he added.

© 24N.biz