Scottish Government

• The Shared Services Guidance Framework was published in December 2007. The document provides information, education, guidance and case study examples to those considering and already on the Shared Services journey.
• The purpose of the report on the Efficiency and Reform Fund (ERF) is to summarise the achievements of the projects that received funding. The projects and activities outlined in the report represent just some of the activities under way across the public sector, contributing to the overall purpose and objectives of the Scottish Government.
• The Improvement Service is devoted to improving the efficiency, quality and accountability of public services in Scotland through learning and sharing information and experiences.
• The Value for Money in public sector corporate services. A joint project by the UK Public Sector Audit Agencies report details indicator sets for managing and understanding the performance and value for money of HR, Finance and Communications Technology, Procurement and Estates functions.
• The National Audit Office have published a report entitled Improving corporate functions using shared services

Related Scottish Government Policy Areas

• Best Value arrangements exist to secure continuous improvement in the performance of functions by public service organisations. Continuous improvement seeks to balance quality and cost considerations, and is achieved with regard to economy, efficiency, effectiveness, the equal opportunities arrangements, and sustainable development.
• Efficiency is not about making cuts. It is about enhancing value for money, improving public service and raising productivity. The Efficient Government Delivery Plans 2008/09 - 2010/11 were published in April 2008 and outline the Scottish Government's commitment to delivering improved public services through clearer and simpler government.
• The Scottish Government's overarching purpose is to focus government and public services on creating a more successful country, which offers opportunities for the whole nation to flourish through increasing sustainable growth. There are five strategic objectives underpinning that purpose - that Scotland should be wealthier and fairer; smarter; healthier; safer and stronger; and greener.