The overall aim of the SDO is to 'institutionalise' training in and for the Public Service. In other words, it exists not merely to run training courses, but to make training an  integral part of the management of the Public Service.

Beyond the central training objectives, the SDO has a key role to play in developing the wealth of human resources with which the Public Service is endowed, and in improving the image and esprit de corps of the Public Service. Its strategy is in line with the process of decentralisation of human resource management and development which is now underway in the Public Service, the introduction of Quality Service Charters, and Malta's membership of the European Union.

The SDO also provides consultancy services to line ministries and departments on external training opportunities and secondment of Maltese officials to EU institutions. It also administers the Masters in Business Administration Award Scheme and other Sponsorship Schemes, and works very closely with the Institute of Public Administration and Management at the University of Malta.