Evaluation of One Digital Partnership Activities 2017-20

Introduction

This report is for funders, policymakers and organisations delivering digital inclusion initiatives.

It examines how the One Digital partnership shared learning, and influenced digital inclusion policy and practice.

It also explores:

• the success of internal collaboration

• how Digital Champion models were shared

• the programme’s wider impact

The evaluation period is between 2017 and 2020.

Methodology

The report draws on:

• interviews with partners and stakeholders

• surveys

• observation of events

• website and social media analytics

• documentary reviews

• bibliometric searches

Data was collected across 3 evaluation phases from 2018 to 2020.

Findings

The report found strong evidence of effective internal learning across the partnership, particularly through:

• monthly reporting

• project‑lead meetings

• ad‑hoc peer exchange

• These interactions:

• improved partners’ confidence

• strengthened delivery

• created a valued sense of collaboration

However, the partnership had limited influence on national policy due to diverse partner priorities. The Community of Practice produced useful resources but was less effective as a means of structured learning.

Overall, One Digital successfully expanded awareness of digital inclusion. The Digital Champions Network significantly improved confidence, skills and organisational capability across nearly 2,000 Digital Champions.

Considerations

Findings are limited by:

• low survey response rates

• attribution challenges

• gaps in website analytics

• Findings relate to cross‑partnership activities and not individual delivery projects.

Results reflect collaborative digital inclusion practice rather than a full assessment of the national impact.