Unlocking global gains: elevating public-sector productivity through digital innovation

Efficient delivery of public services is vital for economic growth and social well-being, making productivity gains in the public sector is critical. Government spending accounts for about one-third of GDP and one in five workers employed globally work in the public sector. So even modest improvements to public sector effectiveness can yield substantial benefits. Increased productivity enables citizens to lead healthier, more fruitful lives and allows businesses to alleviate pressure on employees by creating greater efficiency and innovation. 

Governments face unique challenges and constraints—budgets are tight, risk tolerance is low, and stringent regulatory and ethical standards must be up-held, all whilst delivering consistently high-quality services citizens expect. To realise the full potential of digital innovation, the public sector must navigate complex legacy systems, upskill their workforces in new technologies, and build or maintain robust digital infrastructure that is secure and trustworthy. 

Discussion Topics

e explored the pathways for progress, including change management, infrastructure investment, cybersecurity enhancements. We also outlined a roadmap for strengthening public-private partnerships to attract investment, discussed the findings of a recent Economist Impact survey sponsored by SASnd explored what lessons can be learned from today’s front runners in public sector productivity

• How can the public sector design and build tailored digital solutions that address the needs, risks and challenges of local, regional and national communities? 
• How can public sector workforces be equipped to maximise modern technology outputs?
• How can cost savings reinforce further investment into operational upgrades? 

Digital-transformation initiatives present promising models for elevating public-sector productivity. Estonia’s e-government system integrates essential services—from banking to social-security applications and tax filing—through a single online platform. Indonesia’s Jakarta Kini (Jaki) “super-app” offers similar access to public services and information, and effectively uses predictive analytics to anticipate flood risks, supporting a preventive approach to dealing with climate threats. Meanwhile, Britain’s £3.4bn investment in health-system digitisation is expected to deliver £35bn in productivity gains by 2030, underscoring the long-term potential of digital solutions. And by linking digital identities across databases, governments can gain demographic insights that allow for data-driven policies, optimised resource allocation and targeted responses to social challenges.

Speakers include

• Gavin Day, Executive vice-president office the chief executive, SAS
• Luis Felipe Monte, Former digital government secretary, Brazil
• Kelly Ommundsen, Head of digital inclusion, World Economic Forum
• Morten Elbæk Petersen, Director, Sundhed.dk

Hosted by

• Jeremy Kingsley, Global lead, strategic foresight, Economist Impact