Government Official Advocates Against Instant Digitisation of Administrative Procedures - Official Refusal to Automate Government Documentation Systems
Minister Calls for Thoughtful Digitization in Administration
In a recent statement, Germany's Digital Minister, Steffen Schuetz, expressed his view that not every administrative process requires digitization. According to Schuetz, it is crucial to first address inefficient processes and, if necessary, eliminate them before considering digitization. He emphasized that digitizing a mediocre process only results in a mediocre, digital process, which needs to change.
Schuetz highlighted the importance of focusing on the work processes themselves during the digitization process. He suggested that it's essential to clarify which regulations and reporting obligations are truly necessary, what the state must provide, and what it should not.
Data from the Bitkom State Index 2024 shows that Thuringia lags behind other German states in terms of digitization, scoring 49.6 points compared to Hamburg's 73.5 points. Thuringia also ranked low in the Germany Index of Digitization 2023 by the Fraunhofer Institute for Open Communication Systems.
To improve digitization processes in Thuringia, particularly in Erfurt, the government should focus on strengthening infrastructure, fostering digital skills and education, promoting smart city and regional innovation, streamlining administrative processes, supporting SMEs and startups, ensuring data security, and considering ethical considerations.
By implementing these recommendations, Thuringia can accelerate its digital transformation, bridge the current gap, and make significant strides toward digital competitiveness, similar to other successful European regions.
In light of the minister's call for thoughtful digitization, it is crucial for the community policy in Erfurt to invest in vocational training programs that focus on technology, finance, and business, as this can help streamline existing administrative processes and contribute to digital transformation. Addressing the digital skills gap and fostering education in these areas will be key to bridging the gap between Thuringia and digitally advanced regions. Moreover, the government should consider implementing policies that support vocational training and business innovation, such as financing for technology startups and small businesses, to promote a thriving digital economy within the community.
