At this year’s DigiTech24, we witnessed thought-provoking discussions and innovative ideas shaping the future of the public sector. The event highlighted the critical role of technology and how public sector organisations can leverage it to create more efficient, value-driven services for citizens.
Here are our top takeaways from the event
- £2.1 billion in public sector procurement
One of the standout figures was the £2.1 billion spent annually on public sector procurement. The upcoming procurement reform in February will shift the focus toward added value rather than cost-cutting measures. Flexibility and competitiveness will be key to driving this change.
- Data sovereignty: A rising concern
As governments continue to digitise, data sovereignty has become a central issue. Ensuring that sensitive information is managed and stored securely within national borders is a growing challenge. DigiTech24 emphasised the importance of tackling this head-on to maintain trust and efficiency.
- Mental health and digital transformation
A striking statistic from the event: 1 in 4 people are affected by mental health conditions. This was a powerful reminder that digital transformation must not only drive efficiency, but also focus on inclusivity. Public services need to be designed with empathy, ensuring they cater to everyone, including vulnerable citizens.
- Reducing bureaucracy with digital tools
Manchester City Council shared an impactful example of how digital tools are helping families by reducing the time they spend on bureaucratic processes. The message was clear: technology should free up resources to focus on people, not paperwork.
- Value over cost: A shift in public sector thinking
DigiTech24 showcased how public sector organizations are shifting their focus from cutting costs to creating value. Speakers encouraged everyone to challenge their approaches, particularly with outcome-based specifications that prioritise innovation and added value in services like transport technology.
- The future of AI: Quality and validation
AI-driven services are obviously at the forefront of everyone’s mind, but the focus remains on validating the quality of AI output. As AI becomes more integrated into public services, ensuring that it improves efficiency without compromising quality is essential.
What’s next?
At ArvatoConnect, we are excited to continue playing a role in transforming public sector services. Our solutions are designed to address the challenges discussed at DigiTech24 – creating innovative, flexible, and valuable services for citizens.
Want to learn more about how our tools can support vulnerable citizens? Download our vulnerability report here.
