ARCHIVE: Renew Defra programme and gender equality
Renew was one of the most ambitious change programmes undertaken across Whitehall. The programme was launched in Defra in November 2006 and ended in September 2008. The benefits of Renew will be realised over a number of years but its effect will be to change the way we operate as a Department. Defra will become a more strategic, responsive and flexible department, where outcomes are developed in true partnership and policy development is carried out effectively and consistently. Renew will create an environment where staff continue to be proud of their work and where it is easy to get things done.
As part of Renew Defra introduced ‘Smart Working’. This is all about having the ability to be able to work flexibly, efficiently and sustainably. Given the key business drivers of making better use of office space and the move towards programme/project style of working, most staff no longer ‘own’ a desk.
Instead, with the right supporting technology and tools in place, we are increasingly able to work from a variety of locations to suit our needs, able to access the information we need & stay in touch with colleagues and customers.
One key feature has been the updating of all of core Defra with a new IT infrastructure and updating the Defra desktops to a common standard, using Vista and Office 2007 products. These products help encourage greater flexibility, ease of technology and greater efficiency.
Another key feature of Renew has been the creation of Activity and Development Managers within Core Defra. Activity Managers focus on completion of agreed work objectives, while Development Managers are influential in terms of agreeing career and personal development objectives. The creation of the Development Manager is expected to be particularly beneficial to both women and men helping them to identify and meet their developmental needs in ways that are most suitable for them.
Page last modified: 31 December 2008
Page published: 31 December 2008