The CPSI is mandated to develop innovative, sustainable and responsive models for improved service delivery. The work of the CPSI is guided by an understanding of innovation in a public sector context as

the creation and implementation of new service delivery solutions (systems, processes, methods, models, products and services) resulting in significant improvements in outcomes, efficiency, effectiveness and quality”.

The CPSI facilitates the unearthing, development and implementation of innovative ideas within and throughout the public sector. It achieves this by facilitating pilot projects aimed at demonstrating the value of innovative solutions, and through activities that create an enabling environment within the public sector to support and sustain innovation. The CPSI’s cross-sector reach makes it a resource for the whole of government, thus bridging institutional boundaries.

Through active research and knowledge sharing platforms and products, the CPSI identifies and shares lessons and information on innovation trends nationally, across Africa and internationally. The CPSI partners with a range of individuals and institutions in government, business and the community in exciting and mutually beneficial ways. This partnership model allows us to leverage financial and/or intellectual capital in support of government priorities.

The CPSI is guided by the following fundamental principles:
DEMAND-DRIVEN: The CPSI is committed to responding to identified and clearly articulated service delivery challenges and their root causes.

MULTI-STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND PARTNERING: The CPSI does not directly deliver services. Its emphasis is on facilitating partnerships which cut across all spheres and sectors of government to address  silos that stifle integration and holistic approaches.

LEVERAGING ICT AS AN ENABLER: The CPSI supports Government departments in enhancing access to services through leveraging and exploiting the power of technology in their operations and services.

REPLICATION: The CPSI advocates for and drives the adaptation, replication and mainstreaming of innovative solutions.

EMBRACING DIVERSITY: Innovations rarely happen in a closed circuit or homogeneous setting. To find holistic solutions to challenges, multi-stakeholder teams are gathered to interrogate these challenges.