Legacy tech is the gift that keeps billing for UK’s tax collector
HMRC is taking another stab at modernisation, throwing yet another £5.2 billion into the ever-turning pot. This will supposedly help reduce their dependence on outdated tech systems, but the track record is less than reassuring. The procurement for this Digital and Legacy Application Services 2 (DALAS) contract is in motion, but the specifics are as hazy as ever. Is this really the solution or just another bill?
Key Points
- HMRC initially set aside £4.5 billion in 2022 for tech upgrades, planning to spend an additional £5.2 billion now.
- The DALAS 2 procurement aims to replace outdated systems but lacks detailed plans or timelines.
- HMRC operates one of the largest IT infrastructures in Europe with over 600 systems and 800 terabytes of data.
- A framework agreement is essential for future application service contracts that will span until April 2031.
- A variety of suppliers, including Capgemini and Accenture, are involved in maintaining current systems.
Why should I read this?
If you’re keeping an eye on government tech updates or just curious about how taxpayer money is spent, this article’s a must-read. With another hefty £5.2 billion earmarked for “modernisation,” it’s time to question if any real change will come or if we’re merely funding an expensive cycle of legacy tech maintenance. Save yourself the trouble of searching—it’s all laid out here.