2024 Highlights Day 11: Next Generation Digital Champion Network

Introduction

Here I go again with a story, a spin on Digital Champions taking the form of mythical creatures, a breed of individuals who stand out, visionaries and catalysts for change. These individuals are the driving force behind digital transformation across local government, the wider public sector, third and voluntary organisations and economies, through their relentless pursuit of technological excellence and digital innovation.

Who are these Digital Champions, and what sets them apart? Let's take a step back and consider this from a realist perspective, who are these pioneers and what are the secrets of their success.

Like a broken record…how many of you have heard me begin with…”in an ever-evolving digital landscape, defined by rapid digitalisation”? Yes, I am back here once again, however it’s more like navigating an obstacle race of limited resource, continually reduced budgets and higher expectations from end users.

The role of Digital Champions has become increasingly pivotal. These are the individuals who possess a profound understanding of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, AND BEYOND. (Now we’ve moved onto extracts from Toy Story). Many are enthusiasts as well as experts who leverage technology to solve complex problems, disrupt traditional models, and create unprecedented value.

These individuals often have characteristics in common; visionary leaders who can envision possibilities that transcend the status quo. They can anticipate trends, identify opportunities and inspire others to take new pathways for innovation, providing an injection of hope and inspiration.  

As well as processing a creative mindset that thrives on experimentation, iteration and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, these ninjas demonstrate remarkable agility in embracing new tools, methodologies and eat change for breakfast, (I now have my thoughts drawing comparisons between Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Goldilocks and the three Bears).

As we all know and re quickly learning from experience, collaboration is key to digital transformation. Digital Champions can collaborate across multidisciplinary teams, reinforcing partnerships and building ecosystems that demonstrate collective impact. Agile in their approaches, lifelong learners who have a hunger for knowledge and a thirst for staying 2 steps ahead of the latest trends and developments.  

Every sector can benefit from the innovative support and approaches of these revolutionaries, whether it be through service delivery, driving positive change, exploring efficiencies with an alternative lense or driving a more inclusive future for all.

So what?

As we look to the future, cultivating the next generation of Digital Champions becomes imperative. It requires a concerted effort to nurture talent, creativity, and instil a passion for innovation across the public sector. By investing in education, mentorship programmes, and supportive ecosystems, we can empower aspiring Digital Champions to contribute meaningfully to the constantly evolving digital landscape we are part of.

Let us come together, embrace curiosity, coupled with the fear of the unknown and build resilience through collaborative initiatives to transform public services for the better.

What could be more exciting…well, there is more. How about we empower these networks of individuals with Inclusion Champions. Lived experience to test concepts and solutions prior to deployment, ensuring we consider everyone who is part of the jigsaw.

Next Generation Digital Champion Network

We have now launched this community and agreed our ambition .This network strengthens public sector services by promoting efficiency, collaboration, and a sustainable digital culture, enhancing employee skills, engagement and citizen satisfaction.

• Enhanced Digital Literacy and Confidence - Champions support skill-building and boost digital confidence across teams, reducing reliance on IT for basic issues.
• Increased Efficiency and Innovation - Champions help identify and promote digital tools that streamline workflows and encourage innovation, driving process improvements.
• Improved Cross-Department Collaboration - By connecting champions across departments, silos are broken down, and best practices are shared, supporting unified digital transformation.
• Support for Digital Transformation - Champions promote and facilitate the adoption of digital initiatives, helping manage change and resistance to change.
• Better Public Service Delivery - Champions implement digital solutions that improve accessibility and responsiveness for citizens, enhancing service quality.
• Professional Development and Motivation - The role provides champions with leadership and digital skills, improving morale and encouraging knowledge retention.
• Cost-Effective Training and Digital Culture - Champions lead peer-to-peer learning, reducing training costs and fostering a digital-first, agile mindset across the organisation.

Stay tuned to follow this ongoing journey of how we are nurturing Digital and Inclusion Champions across the public sector via cross-organisation collaborations. We’d love to take you on this collaborative mission between The Digital Office, Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and all those who wish to join us along the way.  If you would like to find out more about this initiative, please get in touch at info@digitaloffice.scot