More public services could be moved online, with the States of Guernsey signing a £5million contract with a third party to deliver a new digital foundation.

It’s part of the States’ plan to appoint multiple contracts after sacking Agilisys as its main IT partner earlier this year.

The new contract with EPAM – a global digital transformation services and product engineering company – will see the States use ServiceNow, which is an AI platform designed for business transformation.

ServiceNow will be used to bring more services online in the years ahead, said a States spokesperson, with a long-term aim for everyone to be able to make online payments, complete their tax returns, and other duties online with more public services to be added over time.

EPAM has also been tasked with providing application support services for the Revenue Service, which was previously done by Agilisys.

Gé Drossaert, Chief Digital and Information Officer, said this is much needed and will be a priority area of work.

“We’re very pleased to welcome this exciting new agreement to deliver the digital capabilities the island needs. We have secured first-class providers in EPAM and ServiceNow.

“EPAM operates on six continents and is among the top 15 companies in Information Technology Services in the Fortune 1000. ServiceNow is a well-established cloud-based AI-enhanced platform that automates processes, crucial for the needed digital transformation of States of Guernsey services.

“This will be a long-term project, as we will be starting with getting the digital foundation in place that gives us the capabilities we need to develop a roadmap to increasing over time the number of digital services we offer to the community.”

Balazs Fejes, President of Global Business & Chief Revenue Officer at EPAM, said: “This is a significant milestone for EPAM, as it highlights our continued growth in the region. We are excited to partner with the States of Guernsey to help define the future of digital government services.

“With a strategic partnership in place, EPAM is positioned to help Guernsey achieve its ambitious Digital Strategy goals. Leveraging ServiceNow’s Public Sector Digital Services, EPAM is set to enhance the government’s digital services, ensuring they are secure, accessible and user-friendly.”

Mr Fejes said EPAM plans to open a branch in Guernsey so that the firm has a physical presence in the island.

This will lead to job opportunities locally, he said.

Damian Stirrett, Group Vice President and General Manager, UK & Ireland at ServiceNow, said it’s an exciting time for everyone involved including the public in Guernsey.

“We’re proud to partner with EPAM to support the States of Guernsey in their mission to modernise public services. By leveraging ServiceNow’s platform, this collaboration will help deliver secure, accessible, and user-centric digital experiences for islanders. This partnership exemplifies how technology can be a powerful enabler of public sector transformation, bringing more digital and consumer-like experiences to citizens. We’re excited to be part of Guernsey’s journey toward a more connected and efficient digital future.”