With the GovTech sector continuing its exponential growth, Mindaugas Glodas, CEO at NRD Companies, emphasizes the pivotal role of effective communication and education in garnering stakeholder interest. Engaging the public through a comprehensive IT project communication strategy, encompassing both traditional and social media, is crucial for optimizing the potential of GovTech solutions.
In the wake of considerable investments in e-services since last year, driven not only by the global landscape but also evolving technological needs, experts highlight a prevalent oversight in the increased focus on e-government projects—the tendency to neglect proactive public engagement. Mindaugas Glodas stresses that the success of GovTech projects hinges on a harmonious combination of public involvement, employee training, and effective IT project communication.
Mr. Glodas provides 5 tips, refined over the years by NRD Companies, on how to seamlessly integrate new GovTech solutions and elevate stakeholder involvement in 2024.
1. Strategize Public Engagement Campaigns
When promoting government IT projects, prioritize communication to educate and engage the public. Elevating civil participation enhances public approval and trust, ensuring that GovTech projects are not only adopted but embraced by stakeholders. Focus on informing citizens about the tangible benefits of e-solutions and encourage user involvement for sustained success.
2. Define Clear Communication Lines and Target Audiences
To enhance public engagement, governments should establish clear communication lines and tailor messages to specific target audiences. Diversify communication approaches based on the primary users of GovTech—general public (G2C), government officials (G2E), and businesses (G2B).
3. Leverage Appropriate Distribution Channels
Utilize a mix of traditional and social media channels, including newspapers, TV, and social platforms, to disseminate educational content. Recognize the growing influence of social media, especially among younger demographics, and leverage platforms like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for strategic promotion. Engage officials and business representatives through webinars, capitalizing on the rising popularity of this medium.
4. Prioritize Quality Content Investment
Invest in high-quality content presentation during IT project communication to maximize engagement. Visual content, such as videos, resonates effectively with audiences, as studies indicate that 65% of the population are visual learners. Consult professionals to determine the most effective formats for communication that will captivate and inform the public and businesses.
5. Integrate Gamification for Inclusive Participation
Introduce gamification elements into e-government systems to boost public engagement by offering rewards and clear benefits to citizens. For instance, gamified campaigns, such as lotteries, can incentivize citizen participation in activities beneficial to the government. However, cultural considerations must be acknowledged, ensuring appropriateness across diverse societies.
Mindaugas Glodas emphasizes, “While governments drive technological changes, involving the public and businesses strategically ensures the success of IT projects. Governments must actively promote the end results of e-solutions both before and after implementation to secure optimal return on investment.“
