Getting Ahead: Choosing the right solution for Connect to Work
As Accountable Bodies prepare for the rollout of the Connect to Work programme, ensuring the right software solution is in place is critical. With the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) setting key delivery milestones, some Accountable Bodies are set to launch their programme as early as April 2025, others will follow in the coming months. However, procurement and implementation of suitable solutions take time, meaning Accountable Bodies must act now to avoid potential delays.
Selecting and deploying a software solution that streamlines programme management, tracks participant progress and integrates with existing workflows is vital to delivering Connect to Work effectively. Enspirio, our purpose-built programme management software, has been developed with programmes like Connect to Work in mind, leveraging over 20 years of industry experience. Additionally, as an approved solution on G-Cloud 14, Accountable Bodies can speedily procure.
This article outlines key procurement, implementation and go-live timelines, helping Accountable Bodies ensure they are ready to deliver Connect to Work quickly and successfully.
Key Dates for Software Procurement and Implementation
The DWPhas set clear timelines for Connect to Work, with delivery beginning in April 2025. To meet these deadlines, Accountable Bodies need to align their software procurement and implementation accordingly.
Key milestones include:
- Programme Readiness Begins (Early 2025): Accountable Bodies should be finalising plans and identifying software solutions.
- Early Programme Launch (April 2025): Some Accountable Bodies will begin delivery; software must be fully implemented before this date.
- Rolling Implementation (Mid-2025 Onward): Other Accountable Bodies will phase in their delivery; however, starting the software selection process now ensures readiness and avoids bottlenecks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Software Readiness
Step 1: Assess Your Needs
Accountable Bodies should first evaluate what they need from a programme management system. Key questions to consider:
- Does the system allow for programmes to be quickly added and configured through a programme builder tool?
- Does the software support end-to-end case management?
- Can it handle complex workflows, such as eligibility checks, intervention tracking and reporting?
- How quickly can it be deployed?
Enspirio’s Programme Builder allows accountable bodies to configure and adapt Connect to Work quickly, reducing implementation time while ensuring compliance with programme requirements.
Step 2: Plan for Implementation
Implementation time varies based on a software solution’s complexity and configuration requirements. Even with fast-deploying solutions like Enspirio, Accountable Bodies must allow for:
- System Configuration: Setting up programme workflows, defining participant journey stages, customising forms (such as assessments and meetings), applying business rules and aligning reporting metrics to match specific contract or service delivery requirements.
- Testing & Quality Assurance: Ensuring all functionalities work seamlessly.
- Staff Training: Onboarding advisors and administrative staff effectively.
Implementations can take weeks for some software solutions, sometimes months. With Enspirio’s templated programme builder, Accountable Bodies can significantly reduce configuration time from weeks to days, accelerating deployment while maintaining flexibility.
Step 3: Prepare for Go-Live & Compliance
A smooth go-live requires:
- Testing: Running smaller test groups before full implementation.
- Adherence to Compliance & Reporting Standards: Ensuring alignment with DWP requirements and wider contractual, regulatory, and performance obligations associated with delivering Connect to Work.
- Ongoing Support: Ensuring advisors and programme leads have the tools they need for success.
Future-Proofing Service Delivery
Selecting the right software solution now does not just impact the immediate delivery of Connect to Work, it also affects future scalability. Accountable Bodies must ensure that:
- The solution can be easily expanded as participant and user numbers grow.
- Future programme updates and enhancements can be easily incorporated.
- Reporting and data tracking is aligned with DWP requirements.
With over 20 years of experience, ICONI have designed and created Enspirio for long-term scalability, ensuring Accountable Bodies are equipped not just for Connect to Work but for all future employability and skills programmes.
Final Thoughts: Act Now to Stay on Track
To meet the ambitious goals of Connect to Work, Accountable Bodies must act now to secure and implement the right programme management software. Given procurement timescales, implementation durations, mobilisation challenges (staff, delivery partners, premises etc) and the need for robust programme delivery planning, waiting too long could risk delays and inefficiencies.
With Enspirio’s fast implementation, flexible programme builder and availability on G-Cloud 14, Accountable Bodies can fast-track procurement and deployment, ensuring a smooth and successful launch of Connect to Work.
If you’re ready to explore how Enspirio can support your Accountable Body or next support programme, book a call with the team here – Book a Chat or Demo with ICONI.