Published methodology

Design Review Governance Framework (v1.0)

One model-neutral evidence framework sits behind every product. The depth, validation and independence change with the service—not the governance principles being tested.

10connected governance domains
60evidence-capped controls in the Health Check
10critical safeguards and override tests

The ten domains

01

Mandate, purpose and accountability

A defensible arrangement needs a clear public purpose, remit, owner and relationship to decision making.

02

Independence, funding and separation

Independence must be visible in structures, incentives and the control of advice—not merely asserted.

03

Conflicts, interests and conduct

Recorded identification and mitigation of actual, potential and perceived conflicts protects trust in the advice.

04

Commissioning, contracting and financial controls

Public bodies need an authorised, aligned and reviewable basis for commissioning and funding the arrangement.

05

Panel recruitment, composition and competence

The quality and legitimacy of advice depend on fair appointment, relevant expertise, diversity and continuing competence.

06

Scheme and panel selection, timing and proportionality

Reviews add most value when the right schemes, people, format and timing are selected for recorded reasons.

07

Preparation, evidence and participation

Balanced briefing, clear roles and accessible participation allow a panel to understand context without compromising independence.

08

Review conduct, advice and reporting

A consistent chaired process and protected reporting route turn multidisciplinary discussion into useful, traceable advice.

09

Transparency, confidentiality, records, data and AI

Public accountability depends on proportionate openness, lawful information handling and reliable records of how advice was produced.

10

Accountability, quality, outcomes and improvement

Feedback, complaints, sample testing and performance review show whether the arrangement works and improves over time.

How the products differ

Exposure Check

Rapid, indicative screening of ten critical safeguards using unverified visitor responses.

Governance Health Check

Structured self-assessment with evidence caps, critical overrides, live outputs and a 90-day action plan.

Independent review

Professional validation of a defined evidence set, an evidence meeting and a reasoned findings report.