Embracing the New Normal: ICT Governance and Business Continuity in Parliaments Post-Pandemic
Written on September, 2021
Introduction
The global pandemic has significantly impacted our way of life, leading to a shift in how we conduct our daily activities. In the context of parliaments, the world is gradually transitioning from a predominantly remote work environment to a hybrid model that combines physical and remote activities. This shift has led to the emergence of what is now called "the new normal," forcing parliaments to rethink their information and communications technology (ICT) governance structures. This essay explores the necessity of adopting new ICT governance practices in parliaments and the four key areas that should be addressed to guarantee business continuity in the post-pandemic world: Adapt and Thrive, The Digital Transformation, Empowering Users, and Safeguarding Democracy.
Adapt and Thrive: Embracing Agility in Parliamentary Processes
The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of agility in the face of rapidly changing circumstances. Parliaments need to increase the speed at which they deliver IT solutions to their staff and members. This includes addressing IT demand and request management, making decisions more quickly, and being more adaptable in selecting and implementing solutions. To maintain the continuity of democratic processes, parliaments must be prepared to act swiftly and efficiently in delivering solutions. Moreover, agile methodologies can be adopted to prioritize tasks, manage resources, and collaborate effectively with stakeholders. By embracing agility, parliaments will be better equipped to navigate an uncertain future and respond promptly to emerging challenges.
The Digital Transformation: Expanding the Digital Frontier in Parliaments
During the pandemic, there has been a considerable appetite for digitalization in parliaments. Processes that were once considered impossible to digitalize, such as financial processes, recruitment, remote voting, and virtual conferences, have now become essential. Parliaments need to continue embracing digitalization, ensuring that their business processes and support functions adapt to the new normal. This will require a continuous commitment to digitizing processes and expanding the use of digital tools and platforms to improve efficiency and effectiveness. To achieve this, parliaments must invest in the necessary infrastructure, train staff in the use of digital tools, and develop policies that support and enable digital transformation.
Empowering Users: Fostering Intelligence and Collaboration in ICT Governance
The relationship between IT and end users has evolved during the pandemic, leading to a need for more intelligent ICT governance. Members and staff in parliaments are no longer willing to wait for weeks or months for IT solutions; they expect rapid delivery of services. This has led to a shift in trust and responsibility, with end users taking the initiative to find and implement solutions themselves. Parliaments must be prepared to support this change by providing appropriate resources, guidance, and training. Additionally, fostering a culture of collaboration between IT departments and end users will enhance the effectiveness of ICT governance. By empowering users and promoting intelligence, parliaments can create an environment that fosters innovation and drives progress.
Safeguarding Democracy: Ensuring Security and Resilience in a Digital World
With the increasing reliance on digital tools and platforms, cybersecurity must be at the center of ICT governance in parliaments. Ensuring the security of systems and data is paramount to maintaining the integrity of democratic processes and protecting sensitive information. Parliaments must establish and enforce common cybersecurity rules, making cybersecurity a cornerstone of their enterprise architecture. Furthermore, parliaments must invest in cybersecurity training, develop robust incident response plans, and continuously monitor and assess their security posture. By prioritizing security and resilience, parliaments can safeguard democratic processes and instill confidence in their constituents.
Conclusion
The post-pandemic world presents an opportunity for parliaments to evolve their ICT governance practices to be more agile, embracing digital transformation, empowering users, and safeguarding democracy. These changes will enable parliaments to adapt to the new normal and ensure business continuity in an increasingly uncertain environment.
As we move forward, it is crucial for parliaments to recognize that the pandemic has irrevocably changed the way we work and interact. The lessons learned during this period must inform the development of future ICT governance strategies, with an emphasis on resilience and preparedness for potential future crises. By adopting a more forward-looking and innovative approach, parliaments can remain responsive and adaptable to the challenges that lie ahead.
In conclusion, it is imperative for parliaments to rethink and evolve their ICT governance practices. By focusing on the four key areas of Adapt and Thrive, The Digital Transformation, Empowering Users, and Safeguarding Democracy, parliaments can successfully navigate the post-pandemic landscape and guarantee the continuity of democratic processes. This shift in mindset and approach will not only help parliaments to weather the storms of the present but also to be better prepared for the uncertainties of the future. The new normal demands a new vision for ICT governance in parliaments—one that is agile, digital, intelligent, and secure, ensuring the resilience and continuity of our democratic institutions.