Keytree Managed Service underpins the transformation of GLA’s grant application process
The Greater London Authority (GLA) wanted to digitise the grant application process for organisations developing and building new homes in London. The project formed part of the Homes for Londoners: Affordable Homes Programme aimed at building more than 90,000 affordable homes by 2021. A key requirement of the project was the introduction of agile working into the GLA ecosystem. Keytree are renowned specialists in agile working and applied the methodology to deliver to the GLA the Open Project System (OPS), a more simplified and efficient way for recognised GLA providers to apply for funds. The project followed user centred design methodologies – a process that kicked off with workshops to drive an understanding of user requirements and match these against business objectives.
Throughout the life cycle of the project, stringently adhering to agile delivery methods, the OPS was released on a phased basis so it was equally important that OPS had the correct level of support from start to finish, but also on an ongoing basis. The Keytree Managed Service team provided the seamless transition of changes from the project into BAU to ensure that the OPS can be operated and supported according to the design with no or very limited risk.
The integration of new initiatives continues with the addition of the Education & Skills Directorate on the OPS in June 2019. This has once again proven the valuable contribution of the Managed Services team to guarantee a faultless transition from project to BAU. The Education & Skills Directorate allows education providers to quickly access and easily submit funding applications through the OPS.