Context
The project is about the introduction, implementation and institutionalisation of the function of strategic and operational planning (SOP) at the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) with digital tools. The project falls within the remit of Greece’s public sector digital transformation policy and was initiated with the establishment of Law No 4781/2021 that reformed the organisation of the Ministry. There is more to the innovation of the project than simply a technological shift. The novelty has been to address the need for transforming structures and procedures (internal environment) to better cope with continuous adjustments derived from the fast-paced changes at international level (external environment).
Objectives
This project aims to modernise the organisation by making data analysis and insights essential for making decisions. In simpler terms, the project wants to use evidence to inform planning and decision-making in projects and policies. This will bring a greater focus on the future when making choices.
The Ministry’s leadership and staff will directly benefit from this change. Additionally, the project’s approach to open communication and transparency will positively impact foreign affairs discussions in Greece, making them more valuable and understandable for everyone involved. This includes international organisations, non-governmental organisations, businesses, civil society groups, and both Greek and international citizens. Overall, this project aims to create a more modern and effective way of managing foreign affairs that reflects the country’s goals and benefits everyone involved.
Implementation
To support and coordinate the function, the MFA established a new unit – the Strategic and Operational Planning Directorate (SOP Directorate) – which was entrusted with the overall responsibility for developing, monitoring and evaluating the Ministry’s first ever Strategic and Operational Plan (SO Plan).
The SOP Directorate continues its close cooperation with the Training Institute of the National Centre for Public Administration and trains Ministry staff on SOP theory and management (with 125 participants, a number which is increasing). In the meantime, it has organised its own in-house workshops (over 800 participants) that offer hands-on experience on practical issues, such as the use of the digital platforms it has designed, developed and deployed throughout the MFA units in Greece and around the world.