Overview of the Review
The “State of Digital Government Review” is a comprehensive report produced by the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. It evaluates the current digital maturity of central government services and highlights areas where digital transformation is lagging. The document is publicly available on the official government website and was submitted to the national database on 2 October 2026.
Digital Pathways in Central Services
The review reveals that 47 % of central government services still lack a dedicated digital pathway, meaning citizens must often rely on outdated or manual processes. This shortfall hampers efficiency, increases costs, and reduces accessibility for the public.
Legacy Systems Remain Prevalent
A substantial 28 % of central government IT systems are classified as legacy, indicating they are built on outdated technology stacks that are difficult to integrate with modern digital services. Legacy systems pose security risks and limit the ability to adopt innovative solutions.
Green Tech Programme Performance
Only 9 % of major technology programmes within the government have achieved “green” status, reflecting limited progress toward environmentally sustainable IT practices. This low figure underscores the need for stronger policies to reduce carbon emissions from digital infrastructure.
Local Authority Digital Staffing
Councils across the UK employ digital staff that represent just 2 % of their total headcount, well below the sector benchmark of 4 %. This staffing gap affects the capacity of local authorities to design, implement, and maintain digital services for residents.
Refresh Cycle and Future Outlook
The review is scheduled for a refresh in the fourth quarter of 2026, indicating an ongoing commitment to monitor and improve digital performance. The upcoming update will likely address progress on the identified gaps and introduce new targets.
Recommendations for Sustainable Digital Transformation
While the report does not provide prescriptive solutions, it highlights the importance of investing in modern, energy‑efficient technology, reducing reliance on legacy systems, and expanding digital expertise within both central and local government. These actions align with broader sustainability goals and can contribute to lower carbon footprints in public services.
Access and Transparency
The full report is openly accessible via the UK government’s publications portal, ensuring transparency and allowing stakeholders, including pan‑European audiences interested in sustainable housing, to examine the data and methodology used in the assessment.