Review launched into Wellington's $600k library website

Wellington City Council has launched an independent review into the website of the newly re-opened central library, following criticism from elected members and the public.

It was revealed earlier this month that the Council paid an Auckland company almost $600,000 to design and build a website that would promote the library and increase visitation.

Wellington City Council chief executive Matt Prosser said there was considerable public interest and concern about the website's cost.

“I have therefore commissioned an independent external review of the process to help understand better what happened and to identify lessons that can be applied."

The review is said to evaluate a number of widespread concerns, including whether the website was established in the most efficient and effective way, and if the costs and scope were defined, tracked and understood.

Technology expert and former ANZ chief operating officer Colin MacDonald QSO has been appointed to lead the review.

He offered to conduct the review free-of-charge, but the Council insisted it would cover any reasonable expenses he incurs.

Prosser said Wellingtonians are entitled to know how the website project came at the cost it did.

“I am clear that a value for money lens must be placed over every decision and expenditure the council puts in place. This was a decision made in a different time, and we are already on the record as saying that such a project, if proposed today, would be unlikely to get approval.

“This review will look for ways to strengthen decision-making processes so that we can continue to improve how council serves the Wellington public.”

Findings will be reported back to Prosser and the Council before mid-September and are expected to be made public soon after.

More on this topic

Critic calls $600k Wellington library website 'insulting, stupid'

It's been revealed that Wellington City Council paid Auckland's Journey Digital $595,801 to design and build a new website for Te Matapihi, Wellington central Library.

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Thu, Jun 11

The Central Library reopened in March after the building was restored and strengthened for $217 million.

Mayor Andrew Little had previously said he was shocked at the cost for the website, which was separate to an existing one where people can become a member, reserve books, and check the catalogue.