17.05.2023 at 06.45

Legacy information systems

Follow-up completed: 30.12.2025

The lifecycle management of information systems and the portfolio level in the central government lacks common goals. The NAOF recommends that the Ministry of Finance should promote more consistent practices for the lifecycle management of government agencies’ information systems. A long lifecycle may also reflect successful planning.

Photo: Getty Images

Download report: Conclusions and recommendations 7/2023: Legacy information systems PDF 105 KB

The audit assessed how different central government units manage the lifecycles of their information systems. The audit also produced information on various factors affecting the management, such as ways of implementing procurement and contracts. Thereby, the aim was to promote the cost-effectiveness of the lifecycle management of information systems in the central government.

Based on the audit, the lifecycle perspective is recognised in the central government but not particularly seen in practice. The means of portfolio management vary, as no common targets have been set for the lifecycle management of information systems. The NAOF recommends that the Ministry of Finance should promote the creation of more consistent practices for the lifecycle management of government agencies’ information systems.

The financial solutions used do not support lifecycle planning in the best possible manner. Based on the observations made, there is a lack of long-term financial planning, and funding is more likely to be allocated to new technology projects.

The NAOF recommends that public authorities should actively plan the lifecycle of their information systems at its various stages in order to identify and anticipate when the development of the system during its use requires special support. Ministries should utilise this information in the preparation of their budget proposals, as this would lead to better coordination and prioritisation of development projects.

Generally, an information system that has been used for a long time is not a negative thing, but a long lifecycle may also reflect successful planning, long-term maintenance and development as well as effective procurement and contract management.

Recommendations of the National Audit Office

The Ministry of Finance should promote the creation of more consistent practices for the lifecycle management of government agencies' information systems. Defined principles, such as the prioritisation of generally used technology and better consideration of development needs in funding, would support the productivity perspective at different stages of the lifecycle.

Partially implemented

Government agencies should actively plan the lifecycle of their information systems and the portfolio level in order to identify and anticipate when development during the system use requires special support. This information should be utilised in the preparation of ministries' budget proposals, which would lead to better coordination and prioritization of development projects.

Implemented in full or almost in full

Government agencies should ensure that all existing information system contracts are easily accessible and that amendments to them are clearly documented.

Implemented in full or almost in full

When planning procurements and contracts, government agencies should take into consideration the risk of supplier dependency and the good practices identified to limit this risk.

Implemented in full or almost in full