11. Choose the right tools and technology

This guidance will help you apply standard point 11.

Everyone is responsible for meeting the Service Standard. This standard point is most relevant to:

Data architectsSoftware developersProduct managers

Why it's important

When you make a decision about technology, you're making a significant investment. The choices you make will have a huge impact on your ability to create, iterate, and operate the service in a flexible, sustainable way.

It's important to make sure you're not working on your own and use learnings from other teams or services where possible. Always try to align technology choices with other DfE teams. The more common components that are created and used, the more efficient you can be in building a great service that meets the Service Standard.

When you make a decision about tools, look across DfE to see what's currently being used. Align with tools being used across other DDT communities as much as possible.

All phases

Things to consider:

  • show how the team explored technical delivery and the rationale for the chosen technical direction
  • check technology choices are technically feasible and are security assured (opens in new tab, DfE SharePoint users only)
  • understand AI technologies, follow the AI Playbook for the UK Government and Data and AI Ethics Framework
  • explore tools the team will use and why they are value for money
  • check how the tools and technology you choose meet accessibility standards, including Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2
  • review any constraints with legislation, contracts, or technology that impact your service
  • align technology choices with the recommended tech stack used across DfE, where possible
  • demonstrate that the architecture is fit for purpose by building and testing a working prototype, technical spikes, or proof of concept using the chosen tools and technology
  • document, review and assure architectural artefacts, decisions, and plans. Share across your community
  • evidence that the team will continue to re-evaluate and challenge previous decisions as new requirements are discovered
  • demonstrate that technology choices are sustainable longer term
  • assess the impact of technologies on user experience, inclusion, and the reliability of information and decisions

Things to avoid in all phases

  • choosing technology without considering long-term sustainability or alignment with existing DfE tech stacks

  • overlooking security assurance when selecting tools and technology