Service reviews are structured reviews of any scale and level aimed at streamlining and enhancing the design and delivery of particular services or functions - using Focus methodologies and enabled by digital investment.
They allow us to consider and understand what is working well about an individual service and where improvements can be made. Working collaboratively with service providers and customers they aim to streamline and enhance design and delivery to meet the needs of staff and students across the University.
A rolling programme of large, University-wide service reviews are commissioned by the Services Subcommittee. These large reviews are normally sponsored by a Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) or the Registrar, with co-chairs drawn from the service area and one of the divisions.
In addition, departments can use the Focus service review methodology to undertake smaller/local reviews by following the Service Review Guide for departments and faculties. The guide, along with supporting information, is available on the Service Review Guide webpage on the Focus website.
For further information about service reviews, please contact the Focus team by emailing enquiries@focus.ox.ac.uk.
Reviews being implemented
Information Compliance
The Information Compliance Service Review examined how Data Protection by Design and Default arrangements are operating across the University. The recommendations report was published in September 2024. The report sets out the key recommendations to be taken forward over the next two years. These recommendations enable the University to respond to the challenges and opportunities identified by stakeholders. They will help reduce risk, maintain trust, protect our reputation, and ensure the security of our research activities.
Research Finance Management (Post Award)
The Research Finance Management (Post Award) Service Review ran from Hilary term 2023 to Hilary term 2024. It reviewed the way the Post Award Research Finance Management service is carried out across the University. A set of recommendations was published in March 2024 which will enable the University to respond to opportunities and challenges, and will lead to a more resilient, effective and collaborative research finance management service for all. The recommendations are currently being implemented.
HR Grading
Undertaken in 2022, the HR Grading Service Review focussed on the job evaluation and grading process at the University. The review identified several improvements to simplify and reduce workload. A temporary triage service launched in February 2023 is one of the recommendations which has been implemented. The implementation of recommendations is expected to be completed in the 2024/25 academic year.
Completed reviews
UAS Communications
Completed in 2024, the UAS Communications Service Review looked at all the communications activities and staff within the Registrar’s remit. The recommendations of the review have been implemented and improvements have had a positive impact, particularly around collaboration and resource sharing.
