Integrated Childrens System (ICS)

Project Information

Department for Children Schools & Families (DCSF)
Integrated Children's System (ICS)

The Department for Children Schools and Families (DCSF) introduce a requirement that was effective since 1st January 2007, for all local authorities to have a system in place, supported by information technology, that offers a single conceptual approach to undertaking the key processes of contacts and referrals, assessment, planning, intervention and review based on an understanding of children's developmental needs in the context of their families and communities. This project was key in implementing DfES's vision for the future.

MRL Deliverables

• Reviewed the position of the project for the client and project team, and communicated the findings to the project sponsor.
• Defined the next stages for the project, and putting forward immediate remedial actions and recommendations.
• Developed the project plan for the following stages of the project.
• Assisted with the development of Business Cases for the project.
• Reviewed the project risks and issues and defined appropriate risk/issues management processes suitable for the culture of team.
• Trained the team on project management principles through workshops and one-to-one coaching.
• Developed a process to liaise with 150 local authorities (LA) through key LA representatives.
• Devised a process to monitor the progress made by LAs in introducing their plans for ICS implementation in 2006.
• Liaised with suppliers on the specifications of the system.
• Developed the key and necessary project documentation to support the project, e.g. Quality Reports, Configuration Plans, Risks, Assumptions, Issues, Dependencies Register, etc.
• Defined the Terms of Reference for the Project Board and developed the governance structure.
• Defined the various project controls to manage the project effectively.
• Provided advice to the key clients and other internal and external stakeholders to ensure the success of the project.

For Further Information:

• Integrated Children's System Homepage
• ICS - Pilot Studies
• Dept. for Children, Schools and Families ICS Presentation
• ICS Minimum Compliance Criteria
• ICS Briefing Papers