RISKS of Dorset Council not achieving the savings it hopes for through a multi-million-pound investment in technology and new ways of working remain 'high'.

Despite this the authority says the changes it has already made are generally working well.

A report lists the potential risk as including delays in introducing new technologies, not achieving the savings planned for, and what it describes as "challenges linked to changes in the workforce and how the organisation works " – in short, staff resistance.

It also acknowledges that some existing services might not run as smoothly as hoped while the changes are taking place.

Many of the proposals from the public perspective centre around using automated systems to deal with public queries when people contact the council – although there is around £5million ear-marked for systems which will deal with human resources, pay and finance internally, much of it needed because many of the council's systems are outdated and no longer supported by manufacturers.

Councillors are being asked next week to approve £2.34m of 'digital innovation technology solutions' for delivery in the summer of 2026.

An accompanying report which outlines all the spending committed to date, amounting to around £12.4million, say the risks of the investment remain 'high'.

The report authors say checks are in place at the authority to make sure the programme remains on track and the public and staff are kept informed:

"As we bring in more digital tools, automation and artificial intelligence, we are making sure that we design new systems with employees and users, making them accessible and easy to use. This includes regularly checking the impact of changes and listen to feedback to make sure services remain fair and inclusive…

"Our Digital Infrastructure and Inclusion Strategy aims to make sure no individual or community is left behind. This includes: • Improving digital connectivity, especially in rural and deprived areas. • Helping people of all ages build digital skills and confidence. • Working with partners to reduce the digital divide and support local economic growth."

The report is due for discussion at the Cabinet meeting on April 21st.