Digital Efficiency Service

Welcome to the Digital Efficiency Service (DES)

Our Goal

To unlock operational efficiency and drive value through the application of innovative technical solutions that harness the power of the Microsoft Applications suite, AI and digitisation.
The intention of the service is to enable and to empower the University of Edinburgh to identify opportunities to improve business processes and increase efficiency.
The service will also support upskilling and promote a citizen developer model of growth in digital efficiency.

Our Mission

At DES we focus on identifying and implementing small-scale, high-impact improvements that leverage existing systems and resources, as well as supporting the potentially large-scale change initiatives proposed under the umbrella of the Strategic Change portfolio.

Get Involved

If you gave an idea, a proposal, or if you need some advice, you can engage with us through two channels:

Email Engagement
digital.efficiency.service@ed.ac.uk
Expect a prompt response to discuss your ideas and how we can help to deliver your efficiency goals
Teams Engagement
Join our dedicated Microsoft Teams channel for real-time collaboration and support:
Teams: Join the DES Channel here. DES Engagement Teams site
 

Why Collaborate with Us?

  • Leverage Existing Resources: No new funding or technology needed
  • Quick and Sustainable Solutions: Minimal disruption with rapid implementation
  • Expert Support: Receive guidance on feasibility, design, and deployment

What We Do:

  • Simplify processes and optimize workflows
  • Automate repetitive tasks
  • Unlock additional value from current capabilities

What We Don’t Do

  • Acquire new technology or engage external vendors
  • Large-scale transformations or enterprise scale projects

Prioritisation

The DES governance model will consider all proposals for viability against available ISG resource, existing workstack commitments and technical feasibility. If DES is unable support a proposal we will suggest a more appropriate engagement framework.



 

DES is a university initiative focused on enhancing operational efficiency through small-scale, high-impact improvements using existing tools like the Microsoft suite and AI.


You can propose an idea by emailing us at digital.efficiency.service@ed.ac.uk or joining our Microsoft Teams channel DES Engagement Teams for real-time discussions.


We support projects that leverage existing systems and resources, focus on process simplification, workflow optimization and automation without requiring new funding or technology.


DES does not support projects requiring new technology acquisition, external vendors, additional funding or large-scale transformations.


We focus on rapid, low-risk implementations that demonstrate measurable benefits. Project timelines vary based on complexity and scope.


Yes, DES resources will provide guidance on the design, feasibility assessment and implementation of approved initiatives.


You can join our Teams channel by following the link provided DES Engagement Teams on our landing page or contacting us for an invitation.


We welcome all ideas as proposals for innovation, even if they don't fit the standard criteria. Submit your idea and each proposal will be assessed on its own merit. If we cant assist we can direct you to a more appropriate delivery framework.


Our current workstack is detailed here DES Engagement Teams


For any additional inquiries please email us at digital.efficiency.service@ed.ac.uk