Leveraging data for informed decision-making in the UK public sector
Data has always been a powerful tool for informed decision-making. But in the digital era, it’s easier than ever to collect and collect it well. This is a particular advantage in areas such as healthcare, local government, housing, higher education, and policing, where public sector organisations rely on information to deliver services.
The implementation of digital transformation technologies - particularly robotic process automation (RPA), eForms, mobile apps, workflow, APIs and web services - has significantly enhanced data collection processes, leading to better decision-making and ultimately improved public services. In this edition of Hot Topics, we’re taking a closer look at the impacts of accurate, widescale data collection in the UK public sector.
NHS and Healthcare
The NHS relies heavily on data to provide efficient and effective healthcare services. The use of mobile apps and eForms in processes such as Digital Front Door gateways, patient portals and assessment tools means lots of comprehensive data can be captured accurately and synchronised instantly with back-office API and RPA integrations. This data allows us to optimise resource allocation precisely, identify healthcare trends clearly, enhance preventive care measures quickly and improve patient outcomes overall. RPA and workflows assist in streamlining administrative tasks, empowering healthcare professionals to focus more on patient care and less on admin, providing services backed with a wealth of important context information.
Local Government
Local government authorities collect and analyse vast amounts of data to address their communities' unique needs and challenges. This data encompasses demographic information, transportation patterns, public safety records, and more. Digital transformation technologies aid in the efficient collection of data through eForms and mobile apps, allowing residents to make contact at the push of a button and council officers working out in the field instant access to back-office records. APIs and web services facilitate the seamless integration of diverse datasets, enabling local authorities to make data-driven decisions in areas such as urban planning, waste management, and public services provision.
Housing
Data-driven decision-making is vital in the social housing sector to ensure fair distribution of resources and address housing challenges. Housing authorities use data analytics to assess housing needs, manage waiting lists, and allocate housing units effectively. Digital transformation technologies like eForms and workflows simplify processes such as applications, repairs reporting and payments, enhancing accessibility and efficiency. APIs and web services facilitate real-time data sharing, allowing housing authorities to respond promptly to changing demands.
Higher Education
In the higher education sector, data informs decisions related to student enrolment, academic performance, research outcomes, and resource allocation. Educational institutions utilise eForms and mobile apps to streamline administrative processes, including admissions and student services. Data analytics help in understanding student behaviours and preferences, enabling institutions to tailor educational programs to meet the evolving needs of students effectively.
Police
Law enforcement agencies rely on data to enhance public safety and crime prevention. Data analytics and predictive modelling assist in identifying crime patterns, allocating resources efficiently, and devising targeted interventions. Digital technologies like mobile apps for reporting incidents and workflows or automations for case management contribute to efficient data collection and processing, aiding law enforcement in maintaining community safety.
How could improved data collection benefit your public sector organisation?
The effective use of data and digital transformation technologies has revolutionised decision-making across various sectors within the UK public domain. From healthcare to social housing, higher education, local government, and policing, data-driven insights facilitate optimal resource allocation, improved services, and enhanced outcomes for citizens. The integration of RPA, eForms, mobile apps, workflows, APIs and web services plays a crucial role in streamlining data collection and analysis processes, ultimately leading to a more informed and efficient public sector. To learn more about leveraging these technologies with the NDL Evolve Digital Transformation Platform, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of the time. Looking for some more inspiration? Find a library of real-life, proven projects here.