Service reviews 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.
There are usually two service reviews of this type being facilitated by Focus at any time.
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 of the Focus website.
For further information about service reviews, please contact the Focus team by emailing enquiries@focus.ox.ac.uk.
Current reviews
Information Compliance
Launched in October 2023, the Information Compliance Service Review is examining how Data Protection by Design and Default arrangements are operating across the University. The review is preparing recommendations that find an acceptable balance between managing our risks, upholding good data protection in practice and simplifying the process and arrangements for staff enabling them to feel confident about keeping personal data safe. The Diagnose report was published in March 2024 and is available to read.
Completed reviews
HR Grading
Completed 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.
UAS Communications
Completed in 2022, the UAS Communications Service Review looked at all the communications activities and staff within the Registrar’s remit. Most of the recommendations of the review have been implemented and improvements have had a positive impact, particularly around collaboration and resource sharing.
