How can data power the smarter state transformation?

A smarter state is the future of government and public services. The vision of a data-driven, smarter state uses data to enhance decision-making, streamline operations, and improve service delivery to create a more connected, efficient, and citizen-focused government.

But there are significant challenges to be overcome before we can get there; challenges that will need an industry-wide, collaborative approach. But firstly, what does a smarter state actually look like?

The foundations of a smarter state

A smarter state is built on the idea that data is not simply a byproduct of public sector activities; but rather a strategic asset that can be leveraged for proactive innovation and efficiency. It involves creating a connected ecosystem where data flows seamlessly across government departments, local authorities, and trusted partners across the public and private sectors. The goal is to use this connected data to drive better policies, increase productivity, and improve public services.

Key characteristics of a data-driven smarter state

• Connected data: Government agencies tend to operate independently, which results in valuable data locked away in different departments. A smarter state connects this data, enabling real-time insights and predictive governance. By breaking down these silos and encouraging data sharing between organisations, governments can create a unified view to power more informed decision-making and supercharge service delivery.
• Proactive, predictive services: A more innovative, smarter state uses data analytics and AI to predict problems and trends and plan for proactive activity. For example, predictive models can be used in healthcare to anticipate disease outbreaks or in transport to foresee congestion and optimise traffic flow. This helps government agencies to “invest to save” by tackling problems in their infancy, and accurately allocating resources.
• Citizen-centric approach: A truly smarter state has the citizen at the heart of service design and delivery. Data is used to deliver personalised services and provide citizens with seamless, intuitive interactions across government departments. Whether it’s tailored healthcare recommendations or more efficient public transport routes, data-driven services are designed around the needs and preferences of the people they serve.

The Role of AI and advanced analytics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a crucial enabler of a smarter state, but not always in the ways you’d imagine. AI is already expanding rapidly within public services, with a whole range of use cases. From an efficiency and productivity perspective, AI can process vast amounts of data very quickly, deliver actionable insights and automate routine tasks. This has the double benefit of improving productivity rates and freeing public sector teams to focus on more strategic activity. 

On the more exciting and innovative front, in emergency management we’ve seen AI-driven analytics that provide real-time information on critical infrastructure status during natural disasters, to power quicker and more effective responses. And in the criminal justice system, AI is already being used to analyse data patterns to predict and prevent crime, improving safety in our communities.

What is needed for a smarter state?

On the road to more data-driven public services, there are several obstacles that need to be overcome. It is only in recognising these challenges, and planning for them, that we can hope to build a smarter state in the UK.

Data sharing

One of the biggest requirements for building a smarter state is the ability to share data. The UK Government’s National Data Strategy highlights the need for better data-sharing frameworks, standardised data formats, and a cultural shift towards openness and collaboration. However, concerns over privacy and security are hampering collaboration and limiting the effectiveness of public services. 

Data standards

For effective data sharing, there must be consistency in how data is collected, stored, and managed. This needs standards agreed across all levels of government and private sector partnerships. Without these standards, the shared data can be unreliable or incompatible, leading to poorer outcomes for citizens.

Skills and workforce readiness

Building a smarter state requires a digitally literate workforce. The UK Government’s recent £7.4m AI Upskilling fund for SMEs is a step in the right direction. After the pilot, it would be great to see the new Labour Government focus on upskilling public sector employees to work with advanced analytics, AI, and data science. There’s a need to attract and retain talent in the public sector that is capable of driving these initiatives forward. Governments must invest in training programmes and develop career paths that appeal to top talent in the digital and data fields.

Building public trust

Data and AI can only be transformative if citizens trust that their information is being used responsibly and ethically. Ensuring transparency in collecting, storing, and using data is vital to building this trust. Governments must establish clear guidelines and governance frameworks that protect privacy and prevent data misuse. This includes engaging citizens in discussions about how their data is used and giving them control over what is shared.

Achieving a smarter state: how can we get there?

The journey to a smarter state is complex but achievable. In my opinion, the following steps are crucial to guide the transformation:

Develop a unified data strategy

A comprehensive data strategy should underpin the multifaceted approach needed to create a smarter state. This strategy should prioritise interoperability, standardisation, and data quality while setting explicit objectives for data sharing and collaboration between agencies.

Foster cross-sector partnership

Collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for driving government innovation. By working together, both sectors can leverage each other’s strengths – whether it’s the agility of private enterprises or the reach of public services – to create more impactful solutions.

Promote open data initiatives

Making non-sensitive government data available can drive innovation and create new opportunities for businesses and citizens. Open data can lead to the development of new products and services that benefit society, from health apps to innovative city solutions.

Invest in AI and analytics infrastructure

To unlock the full potential of data, governments need to invest in robust AI and analytics infrastructure. This includes cloud-based platforms, high-performance computing, and scalable data storage solutions that can handle the growing volume and complexity of data.

Implement ethical AI and data governance: Establishing robust governance frameworks ensures data is used ethically and responsibly. This includes setting up independent oversight bodies, establishing ethical guidelines for AI, and ensuring compliance with data protection laws.

Conclusion

A data-driven, smarter state is within reach but requires collaborative efforts across government, industry, and society. By embracing connected data, harnessing the power of AI, and addressing challenges around standards, skills, and trust, we can create a future where public services are more efficient, effective, and responsive to citizens’ needs. The road ahead may be challenging, but the reward of better outcomes for  all makes the journey well worth it.