VNG International has developed an integrated approach for data-driven decision-making by local governments. The aim is to make well-informed and objective decisions, by using accurate and relevant data for analyses and insights. Our integrated approach targets local governments and is collaborative in nature, since they need to work together with other tiers of government, the private sector and civil society. The starting situation is measured through a Digital Maturity Assessment (DMA). This provides a fundamental understanding of the current digital capabilities and needs. The insights retrieved from this tool can be applied to inform next steps, leading to a digitalisation strategy for the local governments involved. Cities learn from each other through exchanges in digital hubs.
Digitalisation is opening up exciting new pathways for growth, boosting society’s ability to adapt, and reshaping how the public sector operates. For local governments, it provides a powerful tool to create more accountable and efficient governance, reduce corruption, and improve public services. Moreover, using a variety of digital tools, allows for better and more frequent interaction with the public. By harnessing digital platforms and data insights, local authorities can increase transparency, streamline processes, and make decisions based on solid data, leading to sustainable development. This approach not only improves public service delivery but also builds trust, strengthening the relationship between citizens and their governments, and creating a more agile and responsive public sector.
Local governments focus on a variety of key areas, including delivering public services through e-services for citizens and businesses, digitising important records like property, land, and citizen data, and using data-driven decision-making to improve information sharing. Other important tasks include managing public finances, automating local tax collection, ensuring data protection, and overseeing digital governance and anti-corruption efforts. In addition, fostering civic engagement, improving communication between citizens and the government, and building trust are essential. Promoting and safeguarding democracy in the use of digital technologies is also a major priority, ensuring that digitalisation aligns with the fundamental values of democratic societies.
Our approach is anchored in data-driven decision-making, which is vital for local governments as it enables more effective and sustainable governance. By using accurate and up-to-date data, local authorities can assess their digital maturity and create a plan for progress, including procurement, training, and developing necessary tools. Data-driven methods also encourage cities to learn from one another through digital hubs, promoting shared growth. Additionally, creating help-desk services and partnering with local digital providers strengthens the digital ecosystem. Ultimately, this approach leads to more resilient and adaptable local governments, equipped to tackle modern challenges and achieve long-term sustainability. VNG International is developing a Digital Maturity Assessment (DMA), which is a strategic diagnosis of the digital readiness of core government systems, service delivery and citizen engagement capabilities. It also looks at the technology infrastructure and identifies enablers of digital transformation. It intends to assist practitioners and policymakers to design better systems, services, infrastructure and capacities for digital transformation.