At Novoville, we support many local authorities in becoming more efficient, and we've come across some persistent misconceptions about what it means for a council to make the most out of digital.

We thought we'd share what we think are some of the sector's biggest myths.

At Novoville, we support many local authorities in becoming more efficient, and we've come across some persistent misconceptions about what it means for a council to make the most out of digital.

We thought we'd share what we think are some of the sector's biggest myths.

(1) Digital transformation is something you can plan

No matter how many reviews and strategic plans get commissioned, user behaviour keeps shifting. The only way to ‘future-proof' your council is to start with present customer behaviour and be ready to get your hands dirty.

(2) Digital transformation is a mission for a team

Digital impacts everyone. Every officer should be asking themselves ‘where am I losing time?', ‘where are customers wasting time?', and then get the team involved.

(3) Digital transformation is just about tech

No. Any new technology involves changes in internal processes and requires training to fulfill its transformative potential. In fact, ‘technology' is as much a way of thinking about things as it is a tool or solution.

(4) Digital transformation is expensive

Chances are that it doesn't cost nearly as much as you're paying now. With Novoville solutions starting at £5,000, we have proven experience that we can help you save a substantial amount of money and man-hours in just a few weeks.

(5) Digital transformation is about implementing one big solution

There's no need to apply a cast when all you need is a band aid. Don't overdo it, and start small. Every council has different specificities. An all-encompassing solution will charge you for features you won't use and users who won't log in.

(6) Digital transformation is about apps, mobile and social

Yes. And better business processes, more operational efficiency, automation, training, transfer of skills...

(7) Transformation is all about apps, mobile and social

Of course not, it's about providing the best possible access to and delivery of services. Sometimes, this can mean no digital at all.

(8) Small companies don't have shoulders broad enough to support our large-scale project

Big players have been making big promises for years, missing their own development timelines, and, while you're paying the annual licence, leaving satisfaction with Local Government the lowest of any UK industrial sector. We think a fresh approach is needed.

(9) Digital transformation is complex

That's what they want you to think. We deploy new processes and solutions in weeks that can be tweaked in minutes. And we make great coffee.

Made it this far? Got a tenth one? Get in touch.

Michael Taylor is Business Development Director at Novoville

michael@novoville.com l +447785902975

Novoville is a citizen engagement platform that bridges the gap between citizens and their local authorities. We transform the delivery of public services making them more efficient, participatory, transparent and inclusive.