AI Helping Create Innovative Solutions in Local Government
SGR’s 10 in 10 Note – March 12, 2025
As cities around the world continue to grow and face increasingly complex challenges, the need for innovative solutions has never been more pressing. A new?global study, conducted by ServiceNow, Deloitte, and?ThoughtLab, reveals how artificial intelligence (AI) - both traditional and generative - is being adopted at an unprecedented rate to transform urban operations and services. According to the study, 56% of cities are already using AI to enhance government functions, and 83% plan to implement AI in the next few years. From streamlining government operations to improving sustainability and citizen well-being, AI is quickly becoming the key enabler for building smarter, more resilient cities.
As we work closely with local government clients, we are seeing these trends unfold firsthand. The findings of this research reflect what we’re experiencing on the ground - cities are increasingly using AI to drive efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve services. More importantly, it highlights the long-term vision of city leaders who are leveraging AI to fuel economic growth and tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Whether it’s enhancing real-time traffic management, personalizing citizen services, or advancing sustainability initiatives, AI is rapidly becoming the foundational technology that cities are using to future-proof their operations.
AI is not just addressing current challenges but it is also becoming the key to helping cities proactively anticipate and manage risks. From predicting traffic congestion to monitoring environmental factors, AI empowers cities to make data-driven decisions that enhance safety and the quality of life for residents. By integrating AI across urban domains such as public transportation, infrastructure management, and sustainability efforts, cities are positioning themselves to be more competitive, resilient, and innovative on the global stage.
There is so much opportunity for local governments to unlock the full potential of AI to create smarter, safer, and more sustainable urban environments. Embracing AI today is not just about keeping pace with change - it’s about preparing for the future and ensuring that cities are equipped to meet the evolving needs of their citizens and continue to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
Have a good week, everybody.
From This Week's 10 in 10
Servant leadership?is certainly not a new concept. For decades, people across industries have lauded the importance of servant leadership, calling for everyone in every position to?be?a servant leader. But what does it actually look like? And more importantly for you, what does it look like in public safety?
Across the US and around the world, local governments are getting a feel for how AI can help them do more with less, make better decisions, and improve their services. Only 2% of local governments are currently using AI, but more than two-thirds are exploring its potential, according to an October 2023 Bloomberg Philanthropies survey.
A common sentiment you will hear from elected officials and public servants is that they are committed to serving the people and delivering quality government service. One unique way that public sector leaders can reinforce a culture of community service is to support employee volunteering.
Featured Open Recruitments This Week
Check out all of SGR’s?Executive Recruitments?and share them with anyone in your network who might be looking for their next opportunity. ?
Looking for additional support in your local government’s operations and processes? SGR has a variety of organizational assessments and consulting services to strengthen, improve, and help expand your business operations. From Finance & Budgetary Consulting to Citizen Engagement, we have the expertise to help with your specialized projects. Email [email protected] to learn more.
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