Is spending a staggering amount of $600,000 on the development of Wellington Central Library website a good value for money? This has now come under a scanner after widespread concerns appear to suggest the amount is disproportionate to the final product.
The Wellington City Council today, 25 June, announced the appointment of Colin MacDonald QSO to conduct an independent, value for money review of procurement and spending on the website of the recently re-opened Te Matapihi ki ti Ao Nui Central Library. MacDonald has over 35 years’ experience in both public and private sector roles and is an experienced technology sector professional.
Council Chief Executive Matt Prosser says the review follows widespread concern about the spending of almost $600,000 on the website.
“There has been considerable public interest and concern about the cost for the concept design, creation and hosting of a standalone website for Te Matapihi ki ti Ao Nui | Wellington Central Library, which appears disproportionate to the final product.
“I have, therefore, commissioned an independent external review of the process to help understand better what happened and to identify lessons that can be applied,” Prosser says.
The review will evaluate whether the website represented value for money, was defensible in terms of the outcomes sought, its procurement was in line with council policies, was delivered efficiently and effectively, and was governed appropriately. MacDonald has been asked to present a findings report by mid-September this year.
Colin MacDonald has volunteered to undertake the review for no fees. The Council will cover any reasonable expenses he incurs, as well as any technical advice and report writing support required.
Since reopening its doors in March, Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui has already welcomed over 350,000 visitors into the heart of the city, and on track to reach 1.8 million visitors in its first year.
