GDS service standard alignment
Introduction
The Government Digital Service (GDS) Service Standard sets out what teams must do to build and run effective, user-centred digital services. It helps ensure services are accessible, secure and meet user needs.
All teams MUST align with the GDS Service Standard when building or operating digital services. This includes internal tools, public-facing services and data platforms. The standard applies throughout the service lifecycle — from discovery to live operation.
Guidance
Applying the standard
Teams are expected to embed the GDS Service Standard into their delivery approach from the outset. To do this effectively, teams MUST:
- review the 14 points of the GDS Service Standard and understand how they apply to their service
- embed the standard into delivery practices from the outset
- ensure alignment is maintained through all phases: discovery, alpha, beta, live and retirement
- prepare for service assessments where required
In addition, teams SHOULD:
- map each point of the standard to relevant team activities, artefacts or controls
- use the standard to guide architectural, design and delivery decisions
- review alignment regularly as the service evolves
- use the GDS service manual as a reference for good practice
Service assessments
Some services may be subject to formal GDS assessments. These assessments help ensure that services meet the standard before progressing to the next phase.
Teams MUST:
- engage with the assessment process early
- maintain evidence of how the service meets each point of the standard
- address any recommendations or actions from assessors
Services that are not formally assessed SHOULD still use the standard as a benchmark for quality and user-centred design.
Roles and responsibilities
Clear roles help ensure that the standard is applied consistently and that teams are prepared for assessments.
- Delivery teams — responsible for understanding and applying the standard in day-to-day work
- Product managers — responsible for ensuring the service meets user needs and aligns with the standard
- Service owners — accountable for overall compliance with the standard and for engaging with assessments
- Architects and designers — responsible for ensuring technical and design decisions support the standard
Measurement
The following indicators help assess how well teams are aligning with the GDS Service Standard:
| ID | Indicator | GREEN | AMBER | RED |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GDS-1 | Standard understood and applied | All 14 points mapped to delivery practices | Some points addressed | No evidence of alignment |
| GDS-2 | Evidence maintained | Evidence available for each point | Partial or outdated evidence | No evidence maintained |
| GDS-3 | Assessment readiness | Team prepared and engaged early | Late engagement or gaps in preparation | Not prepared or unaware of process |
| GDS-4 | Continuous alignment | Standard reviewed and updated regularly | Reviewed occasionally | Not reviewed after initial phase |
References
Published: 24 July 2025
Last updated: 7 August 2025
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