What spend controls or approvals apply to AI and digital projects?
Answered
Use the Technology Code of Practice in Cabinet Office spend control: you must consider all TCoP points, contact GDS Assurance if approval is needed, and explain any legacy limits. Playbook thresholds still apply for assuring digital/technology spend through your boards.
From the guidance
Primary (how) Technology Code of Practice
You must consider all points of the TCoP as part of the Cabinet Office spend control process. If your project or programme needs spend control approval you should contact the GDS Assurance team at digital-spend-assurance@dsit.gov.uk for guidance with the approvals process. Where legacy technology limits your ability to adhere to the TCoP, you must explain this to the GDS Assurance team.
Section: Spend controls
Secondary (normative) AI Playbook for the UK Government
When working on your business case, note that it’s mandatory to assure all digital and technology spend above £100,000 for anything public facing and £1 million for anything else, through your assurance boards.
Section: AI business cases
Read this in AI Playbook for the UK Government (opens in new tab)
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