Technology
Steering a way through the AI challenge
AI offers so much for adult social care practice, but for all the potential, there are plenty of pitfalls. Caroline Green provides some advice on navigating the challenge,
Cultivating digital transformation in social care across Essex
A programme of culture change, data harnessing and focusing on the future has enabled thousands to receive digital care services in Essex, says Natasha Corness.
Tackling transformation in East Hants
East Hampshire DC's focus is on making services easily accessible digitally, says Gill Kneller. 'We know this is how the vast majority want to do business with us and we are redesigning processes so they can do that.'
Deployment of AI technologies must be guided by a robust framework
The local government sector knows the best ways to serve local communities and is best placed to integrate new technology to deliver wider benefits, says Cllr Shaun Davies.
Six observations from my time as PPMA president
Against a challenging backdrop for public services, PPMA president Gordon McFarlane sets out six key reflections from his two years at the helm.
Governing the local AI revolution
A nuanced approach to governance is needed to successfully navigate the challenge of integrating AI within local authorities, say Amardeep Gill and Jonathan Werran.
Taking a risk-based approach to the switch to digital
Robert Turnbull of PA Consulting explains why a risk-based approach is key in the UK’s transition to a digital telephone system.
Risk/reward – the AI lessons
The responsible integration of powerful AI foundation models into local government will require a process of continual learning and iteration, says Elliot Jones.
It’s time for a ‘big bang’ to fix our workforce
'There is a need to rethink workloads across the public sector, to harness new technologies to do the grunt work while staff focus on the things only people can provide', says Heather Jameson.
Reaching out to residents
Wiltshire Council set up a reablement service to support its growing older population. Helen Henderson shares insights into what has been learned with other local authorities who face similar demands.
Socitm: Public sector services must primarily become digital
Despite extreme pressures on finances and staffing, public sector services must primarily become digital in everything they do, according to a new report from Socitm.
Tapping into digital and tech for public good
AI is arguably this year’s key technology trend, with generative AI in particular and large language models promising great benefits for the public sector. Ann McGauran reports.
An invite to our free virtual Local Government AI Summit
The Local Government AI Summit on 18 January will showcase innovation and feature practical sessions on AI applications, governance and supplier insights. Dr Claire Darwin invites registrations.
Using tech for effective placemaking in Halton
Creating vibrant connected communities is a crucial part of local government policy making – and placemaking sits at the heart of this, say Stephen Young and Emily Douglin.
UK councils in distress – What can we learn from ‘Down Under’?
Recently returned from a fact-finding trip to Australia, Ian Owen describes how councils in the UK could learn a thing or two from their Australian counterparts’ transformational approach.
Eliminating legacy: empowering public sector HR, finance, and payroll
With impending regulation and public sector bodies razor focused on cost-cutting, integrating and adapting to new technology is becoming ever more crucial, says Anton Roe.
AI’s tipping point
How will artificial intelligence change local government and the lives of residents – and can the sector make the most of the opportunities it offers while mitigating risks? Ann McGauran reports,
PwC and Hillingdon leading the way on AI for residents
Hillingdon's AI-driven citizen contact system, supported by PwC’s unique collaboration with AWS, has formed a blueprint for the use of emerging technologies to improve the relationship between the council and its communities.
AI and public services of the future
The challenge for Surrey is to work with partners to develop a regional economic ecosystem around AI, and harness the technology in a safe and trustworthy way, says Dawn Redpath.
AI: The future for local government
Last week, Rishi Sunak brought world leaders to Bletchley Park to focus on AI, but what will it mean for councils? Penna and The MJ asked a recent round table just that. Heather Jameson reports.
