East Riding of Yorkshire Council has unveiled a new digital strategy with a dedicated web page aimed at providing residents with a clear view of its ambitions.
Named Digital East Riding, it places a focus on three broad strands, desired outcomes and projects in the pipeline rather than an array of technical details.
The Digital Customer strand involves making online services easy to use, with projects including Access East Riding – for better access to services through means such as chatbots and online forms for simple requests – the creation of community digital champions and a digital first approach to customer services.
Digital Organisation emphasises the increased use of digital and data tools internally and includes the automation of processes and changes in the commissioning of services.
Digital Place takes in improving broadband connectivity, public W-Fi and the use of smart technology to improve public safety and further the green agenda. Specific initiatives including developing East Riding as a ‘smart county’, improving rural broadband and adopting a 5G first approach to wireless connectivity.
Protect and support
Caroline Lacey, the council’s chief executive, said: “With our digital commitment, and in particular Digital Customer, we can continue to protect the vulnerable by using technology, helping people to live in their homes for longer using smart technology, such as embedded sensors.
“Likewise, through Digital Place we can help support our local businesses to thrive and help protect the local environment by using new digital technologies.
“And of course, we can continually meet our residents’ expectations where we can provide advice and guidance, along with the facilities to report issues and book and pay for services online 24/7.”
Image from iStock, Natalie Mis
