The Public Sector is Ready for New Tools, Automated Processes and Innovation

Imagine an organization readily adopting new technology, integrating it into their existing workflows, and even experimenting with these new tools to creatively solve legacy issues. What does this organization do? Who are their clients? Now, ask yourself: Was that organization operating in the private sector or the government sector? 

People usually associate innovation with the private sector - and according to Dave Turner, that’s a major misconception. As Senior Vice President and General Manager for Equifax Government Solutions, Turner sees firsthand how government agencies innovate. In a recent episode of The Tech Talks Daily Podcast, Turner makes his case to host Neil C. Hughes. Public service workers, Turner explains, are not only humble, dedicated, talented, and service-driven; they’re just as eager as private sector teams to utilize and invent uses for game-changing technologies as their private sector counterparts – especially in times of increased demand. With staffing shortages, shifting regulations, and an expected surge in the number of complex verification workloads, Turner says those demanding times are already here. 

This understanding – of both the obstacles facing those in social services work, and the resulting appetite for innovation within the public sector –  is based on more than Turner’s experience in the government solutions space. It’s reflected in the Equifax Social Services Outlook Index - a survey of 500 U.S. government social services workers measuring sentiment on efficiency, technology adoption, and the future of public service delivery. 

 According to the study, 96% of those surveyed believe new technology will free up time so they can focus more on serving people, and 95% say automation will be beneficial in their roles. When looking at challenges,  49% of caseworkers say they’re primarily burdened by changing policies, while 41% say their top concern is insufficient staffing, and 39% say heavy caseloads are the greatest source of operational friction. The expectation for more complex case work is present among those surveyed, with 98% of caseworkers expecting to see a larger number of applicants with multiple income streams in the future. 

In their conversation, Turner and Hughes reference this study, explore the value of modern automation, discuss how it differs from the digital data collection services of the past, and focus on how government employees expect it to bring positive change to their organizations. 

To listen to the full episode of The Tech Talks Daily Podcast, follow this link. For more information on the public sector’s interest in automated processes, check out the inaugural Equifax Social Services Outlook Index.

The information provided is intended as general guidance and is not intended to convey any tax, benefits, or legal advice. For information pertaining to your company and its specific facts and needs, please consult your own tax advisor or legal counsel.  Equifax provides services that can help employers reduce their compliance risks. Details on our provision of these services and related support will be contained in your services agreement. Links to sources may be to third party sites. We have no control over and assume no responsibility for the content, privacy policies or practices of any third party sites or services.