TechAlign recently attended the Transforming Technology Services in Local Government Conference in London on 7th March. The event was attended by organisations from across the country to discover what others are doing surrounding digital transformation within Local Government.
Delegates were able to discuss the challenges faced, including resources, funding, and the workforce. There were also several opportunities to learn about what Councils are doing when it comes to digital strategy, from implementation to the impact of the strategy.
One theme that was clear, was that having a good strategy that not only covers technology, but people, processes, and culture, is essential. Equally important is the support from the organisation and its people in ensuring the success of the strategy.
Cyber Security
Another key topic discussed on the day was Cyber Security. Awareness of this amongst Local Government has been at an all-time high after a Council suffered a major zero-day attack in 2017 that left the organisation with total data loss, including back-up data. For any organisation, this is the stuff of nightmares.
This cyber attack on Copeland Borough Council ended up costing the organisation £2m. The very honest account by the IT manager really brought home the significance of robust data protection strategy/policy and compliance with the policies. Two years on, the authority is on the road to recovery but unsurprisingly still feeling the effects of the attack.
It reminds us why digital security should be of utmost importance to any organisation, not just to those in Local Governments, as the damage caused can be devastating.
Digital transformation and AI possibilities
The most inspiring session of the day was easily one from Maryvonne Hassall from Aylesbury Vale Borough Council (AVBC), which was focused on not only digital transformation but also a strong emphasis on AI in the context of Local Government service delivery. AVBC have developed Ava, an AI-based bot who is having an immensely positive effect on how the organisation provides services to its customers by fully handling enquiries on several key Council services. This shift is, of course, supported by extensive and innovative organisational restructure and culture change.
Overall, the Transforming Technology Services in Local Government Conference provided eye-opening accounts of real-life situations happening throughout the country and opened discussion on the barriers of digital transformation and how organisations are overcoming them. It was a great event to attend, and we fully look forward to the next one to hear about new developments within Local Government and technology.
We can help with your organisation’s own digital transformation
TechAlign has an established and proven framework for development of digital transformation strategies that encompasses four key themes as well as three underlying building blocks and takes into the non-technical aspects as highlighted during the conference. TechAlign also has experience of assisting clients in encouraging buy-in from senior stakeholders including Councilors.
Find out more about our services or get in touch with our team to discuss what TechAlign can do for your organisation.