AI
Deployment of AI technologies must be guided by a robust framework
The local government sector knows the best ways to serve local communities and is best placed to integrate new technology to deliver wider benefits, says Cllr Shaun Davies.
Future Forum: ‘Future is bright’ with AI
The sector has been urged to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reject ‘scaremongering’ at The MJ's Future Forum today.
Daring to care pays off
Integrated Care Boards face many challenges, yet one year on from her review, Patricia Hewitt offers an upbeat assessment and, says Aidan Rave, there is indeed room for optimism.
Choice of a new generation
Now is a pivotal moment for councils to start developing strategies to engage with Generation Z, and in doing so start to rethink the future of local government, says Victoria Evans.
Governing the local AI revolution
A nuanced approach to governance is needed to successfully navigate the challenge of integrating AI within local authorities, say Amardeep Gill and Jonathan Werran.
Lack of AI policies could have 'catastrophic consequences'
More than three out of four UK councils do not have usage policies for artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, according to data obtained using the Freedom of Information Act.
Risk/reward – the AI lessons
The responsible integration of powerful AI foundation models into local government will require a process of continual learning and iteration, says Elliot Jones.
Don’t fall for all the hype behind AI
Natalie Cramp talks to Ann McGauran about some of the opportunities, risks and challenges emerging from the use of data and AI in local government.
Working with Government can deliver real dividends
Collaboration with Government can achieve real results for communities and councils should not be afraid of embracing productivity, says Cllr Kevin Bentley.
It’s time for a ‘big bang’ to fix our workforce
'There is a need to rethink workloads across the public sector, to harness new technologies to do the grunt work while staff focus on the things only people can provide', says Heather Jameson.
Staff shocks
A new report from the County Councils' Network and PwC lays out some solutions to a complex sector recruitment problem that’s worsening by the year, says Simon Edwards.
Dream big, start small
Ann McGauran reports on the Local Government AI Summit, which was aimed at providing the sector with a deeper understanding of the technology’s potential to solve real problems.
Socitm: Public sector services must primarily become digital
Despite extreme pressures on finances and staffing, public sector services must primarily become digital in everything they do, according to a new report from Socitm.
Tapping into digital and tech for public good
AI is arguably this year’s key technology trend, with generative AI in particular and large language models promising great benefits for the public sector. Ann McGauran reports.
An invite to our free virtual Local Government AI Summit
The Local Government AI Summit on 18 January will showcase innovation and feature practical sessions on AI applications, governance and supplier insights. Dr Claire Darwin invites registrations.
Using tech for effective placemaking in Halton
Creating vibrant connected communities is a crucial part of local government policy making – and placemaking sits at the heart of this, say Stephen Young and Emily Douglin.
UK councils in distress – What can we learn from ‘Down Under’?
Recently returned from a fact-finding trip to Australia, Ian Owen describes how councils in the UK could learn a thing or two from their Australian counterparts’ transformational approach.
Future Forum North: Dispelling AI ‘doom and gloom’
A call was made to shift the focus of the artificial intelligence (AI) debate to its potential benefits, rather than ‘doomsday scenarios’ at the MJ Future Forum North.
AI’s tipping point
How will artificial intelligence change local government and the lives of residents – and can the sector make the most of the opportunities it offers while mitigating risks? Ann McGauran reports,
Is it time to consider AI legislation?
Watching the development of the EU AI Act could provide local authorities unsure about the use of AI and its potential impact with some useful guidelines, writes Sandip Patel KC.