\n<\/p>\n
The government will build on such efforts to extend GovTech\u2019s expertise and capabilities across the whole of government, he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs we progressively build up these capabilities elsewhere, GovTech itself must continue to be a centre of excellence \u2013 setting high standards, and tackling complex technological challenges that individual agencies cannot easily address on their own,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
The ultimate goal is not simply to have a strong technology agency, but to have a \u201ctechnologically strong government\u201d, said Mr Wong.<\/p>\n
This means having a government where technology is integral to policymaking, where policymakers understand what technology can enable, where technologists understand the policy objectives and operational realities, and where both work together to deliver better outcomes for Singaporeans, he said.<\/p>\n
Mr Wong said that for a long time IT was treated as \u201csomething downstream” from policy, where policymakers decide what needed to be done and IT teams would be asked to build the system to implement it.<\/p>\n
But there are limitations to this and the current approach is not good enough, added the prime minister.<\/p>\n
He said that policymakers and technologists need to work together much earlier and more closely, and this requires changes on both sides.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor policymakers, it means developing a better understanding of technology. Not so that everyone becomes a technology expert, but so that they understand what technology can and cannot do, and take these considerations into account when designing policies,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Mr Wong said that public service leaders are given time to deepen their understanding of technology. This is being done at the political leadership level, including dedicated sessions for ministers, he said.<\/p>\n
The aim is not to master all the technical details, but to develop the instincts to ask the right questions, appreciate the possibilities and constraints, and understand how technology can help shape better policy choices, he added.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor GovTech officers, it means going beyond implementing what policymakers ask for. We want you to be active partners in solving public policy problems,\u201d said Mr Wong.<\/p>\n
This means understanding the policy intent of decisions and bringing their expertise and judgment to the table early, he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cDo not be afraid to challenge established assumptions, or to question requirements that create unnecessary complexity. Suggest different approaches, and better ways of achieving the same objective.<\/p>\n
\u201cSometimes, the best solution is not more sophisticated technology, but a simpler policy,\u201d said Mr Wong.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\n