Public sector and non-profit organisations are increasingly using chatbots to engage with online users and collect valuable insights. However, without a shared space to exchange code, tools, and lessons learned, teams were facing duplication of effort, inconsistent approaches, and recurring technical and operational challenges.

Working as part of a consortium, we were commissioned to explore how an open-source repository could enable secure collaboration and knowledge sharing between trusted partners. The challenge lay in creating a platform that balanced transparency, accessibility, and governance — encouraging participation while managing sensitivities around data, code ownership, and operational use.

The team undertook user research, stakeholder engagement, and technical development to design a sustainable repository model.

Through a structured programme of interviews, requirements mapping, and iterative testing, the consortium developed an open-source repository built using GitHub and Backstage. This was supported by a concept of operations outlining roles, responsibilities, and recommended governance to guide safe, consistent, and effective use. Testing and demonstration sessions were held to refine functionality and ensure the repository met operational needs.

The project delivered a shared digital platform that enables organisations to collaborate, share code, and exchange best practice in the development and deployment of chatbot technologies.

The repository provides a foundation for innovation, interoperability, and learning, helping reduce duplication and establish consistent standards across participating organisations.

This commission demonstrated how a collaborative, user-driven approach can create open and secure environments that strengthen digital capability and accelerate responsible technology development across the public and non-profit sectors.