Modernisation Playbook

Overview

The Modernisation Playbook provides agencies with a systematic approach to modernise outdated digital products using the IMPACT Framework. It guides agencies in identifying products that are not fit for purpose, prioritising them for modernisation, and building the capabilities to ensure agencies can continue delivering relevant services while managing costs and maintaining security and resiliency.

Objective

The Modernisation Playbook aims to help agencies move beyond ad-hoc or last-minute tech refresh approaches to a systematic approach to modernise outdated products using the IMPACT framework. Without addressing outdated products, agencies face significant challenges including slow policy implementation, unreliable and insecure products, and rising costs. The framework helps agencies achieve desired modernisation outcomes by identifying outdated products and modernising them better.

Scope

The Modernisation Playbook is applicable to Whole-of-Government (WOG) modernisation projects involving products that have become outdated in terms of business fitness, technical fitness, or cost fitness. It addresses modernisation efforts ranging from single product updates to comprehensive system transformations.

Target Audience

The Modernisation Playbook is intended for government and industry partners involved in digital modernisation initiatives. It caters to various organisational levels, from senior executives making strategic decisions to policy, operational and technology teams involved in modernisation projects.

Standards, Guidelines and Assessment Criteria

For teams interested in adopting the Modernisation Playbook, consider the following guidelines:

• Systematically identify and prioritise outdated products for modernisation based on fitness rather than age, ensuring resources are allocated to the most critical needs.

• Map current and future service journeys to build stakeholder alignment on modernisation needs and establishing how to get there.

• Break down modernisation into manageable phases that reduce risk and deliver value incrementally, while avoiding disruptive “big bang” implementations.

• Establish effective team structures with clear accountability and cross-functional integration of Policy, Operations, and Technology expertise.

• Guide comprehensive change management that focuses on outcomes rather than feature parity, ensuring effective transitions and sustained adoption.

• Secure top-level ownership from agency leadership to make necessary trade-offs and provide strategic direction throughout the modernisation journey.

Resources and Templates

Modernisation Playbook: Access the playbook here with detailed IMPACT framework guidance and implementation steps.

Contact Information

For more information on the Modernisation Playbook and implementation support, reach out to the Smart Nation Group - Digital Government (SNDG) team through this form.

Last updated 25 November 2025