Four leading local government groups have joined forces to call on council leaders to use digital technology to help transform services.

In a paper published today, the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (SOLACE), the Local Government Association, the Local Chief Information Officer Council and IT group Socitm claim digital innovation can play a key role in building shared services and delivering place-based policies.

According to the report, digital innovation is the ‘key pillar of the transformation the sector is currently undergoing'.

The report claims a digital approach can help council leaders create greater efficiency and a ‘better citizen experience,' as well as cut costs.

It cites the example of Hammersmith and Fulham LBC, which has developed a customer self-service portal that has helped save the London borough £1.15m a year.

The paper also called on local government bosses to promote digital innovation with colleagues in central government and the NHS.

‘Local digital leadership is crucial to the transformation our sector is undergoing,' said Coventry City Council chief executive and SOLACE spokesman for digital leadership, Martin Reeves.

‘It is vital that all local leaders are on board with this agenda. 

‘That's why we have come together with the other key membership bodies in our sector to promote and build the leadership required.'

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