UKGC Plans Major Finance System Overhaul
FOI reveals regulator intends to replace its core financial software, currently costing £47k annually.
The UK Gambling Commission plans to replace its core finance and expenses systems, a Freedom of Information request has revealed. The current software costs the regulator approximately £47,000 per year, and while the Commission intends to procure a new system, a timeline has not yet been established.
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Regulator to Procure New Finance System
A Freedom of Information (FOI) request has revealed the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is planning to replace its core financial and resource management systems. The disclosure, dated 23 May 2023, provides insight into the operational spending and future procurement plans of the industry regulator.
This move is significant for consumers and the industry, as the UKGC is funded by the licence fees paid by gambling operators. The efficiency and cost-effectiveness of its internal operations, including its financial software, directly impact the resources available for its primary duties of regulating the market and protecting consumers.
Details from the Disclosure
The FOI response confirms several key details about the Commission's current and future plans:
- Current Systems: The UKGC currently uses a finance and purchase order system from Nolan, supplemented by an expenses module from SAP Concur. Together, these form the Commission's entire finance system.
- Annual Cost: The combined annual contract value for these systems is approximately £47,000.
- Contract Status: The arrangement with the primary provider, Nolan, is a rolling contract, which offers flexibility but often precedes a move to a new platform.
- Future Plans: When asked about software upgrades, the Commission stated, "No. Our plan is to procure a new system."
This statement is a clear indication that the regulator is preparing for a significant technological overhaul of its back-office functions. However, the project appears to be in the very early stages.
In response to questions about when the Commission would go to market for a replacement system, it stated, "At this stage no information is held falling within the scope of this part of your request." This is a standard response under the Freedom of Information Act, indicating that a formal procurement timeline has not yet been established.
Significance for Regulatory Oversight
The decision to procure a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or finance system represents a major internal project for the Gambling Commission. Modernising these systems can lead to improved financial management, greater operational efficiency, and more robust data for strategic planning and reporting.
By replacing its current multi-part system, the UKGC is likely seeking a more integrated and modern solution. This move will trigger a formal public procurement process, which will be scrutinised to ensure it delivers value for money. The current £47,000 annual cost provides a public baseline against which the cost and benefits of any new system will be measured.
Saferwager will continue to monitor the Commission's procurement activities for further developments.