AI
In defence of algorithms and their value to public services
Rather than turning our back on algorithms, the task is to make them better and the data they use more balanced and properly representative, argues Andrew Laird.
Learning from cancelled systems
Research examining the use of predictive data in public services in countries across the world has identified more than 50 systems that have been paused or cancelled. Dr Joanna Redden and Anna Grant look at the emerging findings.
Bringing the widest evidence base to decisions about local care markets
In the light of COVID-19 and in pursuit of better outcomes for patients and customers we need shared visibility of pathway performance from end-to-end, says Jonathan Flowers. New technologies can help, he adds.
Where are your services on the Smart City journey?
With technology moving into the next era of 5G and AI, The MJ and BT recently conducted a survey into the extent that local authorities are using shared services to develop their Smart Cities and Places. Michael Burton reports.
AI could save councils £500,000
Artificial intelligence (AI) technology could save local authorities £500,000 in the next 12 months, a survey of UK councils has found.
Council leadership needs to have oversight of the entire AI system
Council leaders need to provide ‘proper accountability’ for AI technology and staff cannot take a ‘computer says no’ approach, according to the chair of the Committee on Standards in Public Life.
Acting now on standards will enable public sector to reap the benefits of AI
Local authorities using AI will need to establish suitable governance mechanisms, and to be able to publicly demonstrate that the benefits outweigh the risks, says Jonathan Evans.
The absence of the human touch
Blair Mcpherson ponders a recruitment software package to be used in conjunction with video interviews which analyse a candidate’s performance. He would rather place his faith in the traditional panel interview.
The MJ Data and Digital: Digitising democracy
Digital minister for Taiwan, Audrey Tang has brought the openness and transparency she found on the internet to the government and created a system to crowdsource answers to policy problems. Heather Jameson reports
A robot takeover? Why the future of government is about innovation not machines
Vicki Sellick explains why Nesta is launching a survey ahead of its Government Innovation Summit next month on how skilled public servants feel about making change in their role.
How 5G Will Make Cities Smarter
Local authority funding has dropped by 21% in the last decade. Head of BT surveillance argues Brian Jackson argues that rescue could come in part from the arrival of 5G
Harnessing the best of the West
Ann McGauran reports on the launch of Metro Dynamics’ report making the case for the creation of the UK’s next wealth generator – the Great Western Powerhouse
Learning from the special relationship
Reflecting on insights from the USA, Lawrence Conway says there are key elements we need to address in the UK if we want to keep pace with the changing needs of society and business.
Time to get the house in order
Trevor Hampton outlines why data needs to be part of your organisational DNA if you want to be ready for Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Bring on the robots
AI could be a great time-saver in workplaces dealing with complex processes, writes Claire Fox, but making work robotic should not be confused with technology’s exciting potential.
Digital transformation must be based on a clear strategy for change
David Newell says if the UK, and health and care services across the world, fail to adopt new technology-enabled models of care provision, current services will become even more unaffordable and unsustainable
Robots and Risk – what could possibly go wrong?
David Forster says that while remarkable 4th Industrial Revolution projects offer opportunities to reshape service provision, managing risk in the age of machines will be the next big challenge for risk managers and heads of governance.
Giving the sector a voice on AI
Chair of the Committee on Standards in Public Life Lord Jonathan Evans says Artificial Intelligence can revolutionise local government – but it must do so in line with standards that the public expect.
How AI is already transforming the workplace
Andrew Grant explains how AI is only a part of Aylesbury Vale DC's 'aggressive digital transformation approach', and he says it needs to be embraced by 'any organisation calling itself modern or relevant.
Making digital partnerships work
Melvyn Ingleson says that while the expertise of technology companies is genuine, there is an opportunity for councils to re-balance relationships, drive a harder bargain and ensure robust engagement from those you hold accountable for outcomes.
