5 min Read

Common misconceptions about digital solutions and digital transformation.

Examine some common myths about digital solutions and digital transformation and what the reality actually is.

Introduction

When it comes to digital solutions, there are many misconceptions. These misconceptions are sometimes to reason why local governments shy away from digital solutions and digital transformation. In this article, we are going to take a look at some of the most common misconceptions about digital solutions and what the reality really is of adopting digital solutions. Here are some of the most common misconceptions.

Misconception #1: “We don’t need to use technology because we just got our entire agency paperless”

This is probably one of the most dangerous statements that any manager can utter. It implies that once a local government has moved away from paper processes, there is nothing more to improve or innovate, and that is simply not the case. A digital solution is not just digital files that are sent back and forth using digital methods. A digital solution is a complete process of communication between the agencies in a local government, but it also includes streamlined communication with citizens and other cities or regions within a state. Another aspect of this to consider is data storage. It is no longer enough to just digitize manual processes. Instead, you need to be using your process to harness valuable data and digital solutions can make that possible. By choosing the right digital solution, your local government can not only collect data, but also access, store, and analyze data in a way to provides valuable insight and be help improve your community.

Misconception #2: “We have an IT department, so we don’t have to use digital solutions”

This is an example of the false security that local governments often feel. When you have an IT department, there are processes within your IT department that digital solutions can help improve. In addition, digital transformation often requires the expertise and experience of outside resources to compliment the internal IT department resources. However, digital transformation goes beyond just the IT department and digital tools. Digital transformation requires careful consideration of the inner workings of a local government and how digital solutions will impact the organization. To digital transform, at some point you need to ask yourself – is there a digital solution that can improve an existing process? Do I have data that digital solutions can harness and analyze? Once you have figured out the digital solution or digital solutions that will help with your local government’s digital transformation, then it comes down to choosing the one that works best for your organization and can support you as you grow and your needs change. To make a long story short, digital transformation goes far beyond an IT department. It is a journey that the entire organization must embark on together and that will transform the entire organization as you know it. (Slowly over time, of course)

Misconception #3: “Digital solutions are too expensive”

This is probably one of the biggest digital transformation myths. Digital solutions, when implemented correctly and with digital transformation in mind, can save you money and resources over time. Digital technology is scalable so if your digital solution does not fit all of your needs today, it has the ability to grow with your organization and provide you digital improvement as your organization changes over time. To make digital transformation successful, it is not necessary to choose digital solutions that fit every aspect of your digital strategy immediately. Instead, look at digital solutions for what they can provide you today and how they can grow with you in the future. This way, you are setting yourself up for long-term growth instead of short-term improvements. This also means you do not have to provide all the required funds upfront. Instead, you can carefully plan your digital transformation journey in a way that frees up funds to reinvest into further digitally transforming your local government.

Misconception #4: “Digital solutions are only used by larger governments”

This misconception is something we take personally here at MuniLogic. We believe there is no local government too small for digital transformation or digital solutions. We have spent years helping small to mid-sized local governments embark on their digital transformation journeys and we have seen firsthand the benefits it can have, no matter the size of the local government. Digital solutions are valuable for local governments of all sizes. Even the smallest digital solution can make a big difference in your digital transformation journey. Instead of looking at digital solutions as something only used by larger local governments, think about digital solutions as valuable assets to any local government.

Conclusion

When it comes to digital transformation and digital solutions, there are many misconceptions that keep local governments from embarking on their digital transformation journey. If you are looking to digitally transform your local government, consider digital transformation as something that requires the entire organization’s participation instead of just an IT department. Also, digital solutions can often help save you money and resources over time. Lastly, digital solutions are not only used by larger organizations. Digital solutions are valuable for all local governments regardless of size. If your local government is ready to embark on its digital transformation journey, MuniLogic is here to help. We are a team of diverse and dedicated professionals who can work with any size local government to get the results they want. To learn more about how MuniLogic can help support you through your digital transformation, visit www.munilogic.com to schedule a free consultation, we can’t wait to hear from you.

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