Rethink Rethink...the civil service
Jun 5, 2025
Gus O’Donnell, a former Cabinet Secretary for the UK, brings deep insights into the evolving landscape of civil service. He tackles growing inefficiencies and public dissatisfaction while discussing the necessity for reform and agility within bureaucracies. O'Donnell emphasizes the importance of embracing failure for innovation, reflecting on the successful COVID vaccine rollout. He also explores the transformative potential of AI in government processes and advocates for a citizen-focused approach to modernize public service and restore trust.
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Civil Service Growth vs Efficiency
- The UK civil service has grown a third larger in the last decade but this hasn't improved public satisfaction.
- This growth contrasts with perceptions of inefficiency and challenges in delivering effective government.
Use Agile Over Waterfall
- Adopt an agile methodology to government projects to improve delivery through continuous learning.
- Avoid rigid waterfall planning that prevents adapting to new information during execution.
Everythingism Weakens Policy
- "Everythingism"—attempting to solve all problems simultaneously—prevents effective government policy.
- Focused, prioritized efforts work better than trying to appease every stakeholder in every area.