Colchester City Council has been featured by Microsoft as a featured customer story, becoming the only UK council highlighted in the latest case study showcasing innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital adoption technology.
The story highlights how we have used the WeChange.AI Navigator platform to better understand how our workforce engages with digital tools, helping us take a more targeted and evidence-led approach to digital transformation.,
As councils continue to face growing demand for services and increasing financial pressures, we have focused on ensuring technology investments deliver real value by supporting our people to adopt and use new tools confidently and effectively.
Putting people at the heart of digital transformation
Rather than focusing solely on technology, our approach has centred on understanding employees' experiences of digital change and identifying where additional support, training and engagement may be needed.
Using insights from the platform, we have been able to identify opportunities to improve digital confidence across the organisation, develop targeted support programmes and strengthen our network of digital champions.
This work has also supported our wider adoption of Microsoft 365 and AI-powered tools, helping staff work more efficiently and freeing up time to focus on delivering services for residents.
Darren Kidson, Service Director - Digital, Data and Technology at Colchester City Council, said: "Technology alone does not deliver transformation. Lasting change happens when people have the confidence and support to embrace new ways of working.
"By using data and insights to understand how our workforce experiences technology, we've been able to take a more informed and targeted approach to digital adoption.
"We're incredibly proud to be recognised by Microsoft. It demonstrates that local government can be at the forefront of innovation while remaining focused on what matters most, delivering better outcomes for our residents and communities."
Cllr Alison Jay, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Transformation and Digital at Colchester City Council, said: "Councils across the country are exploring how AI can support service delivery, but successful adoption depends on people, not just technology.
"Our approach has been to use evidence and insight to understand where support is needed, helping staff build confidence and make the most of the tools available to them.
"We are proud that Microsoft's feature shines a spotlight on the innovative work taking place in Colchester and the valuable role local government can play in shaping the future of digital transformation."
Sharing good practice across the sector
Our experience demonstrates how councils can use data, insight and AI to support workforce development, accelerate digital transformation and maximise the value of existing technology investments.
As we continue our digital journey, we remain committed to sharing learning and good practice with partners across local government and the wider public sector.
(Pictured above: Cllr Alison Jay)
(Pictured above: Cllr Alison Jay)