The advent of 5G technology represents a significant leap forward, promising to revolutionise the way we interact, innovate, and conduct business. For many businesses, private 5G networks offer lightning-fast connectivity speeds, minimal latency, and the capacity to connect an unprecedented number of devices simultaneously. This article argues that for public authorities, fully realising 5G’s benefits hinges on creating long term sustainability and social value, a collaborative and customer centric approach, and being adaptable to new business models and embracing flexibility.
Long-Term Sustainability and Social Value
The digital transformation of public services is at the core of the work we do at Intelligens Consulting and there are many examples of private 5G networks being designed to deliver public services use cases such as in health and social care, land and sea transportation, and to support the tourism economy, for example.
The integration of 5G technology can enhance and streamline services provided by the public sector enabling government bodies to optimise productivity, reduce cost leakage, and deliver services more efficiently to citizens and businesses. This is what Intelligens Consulting refers to as ‘Whole-Council’ digital transformation’.
However, it can be difficult to demonstrate monetisation and the RoI from public service use cases in Green Book business cases. Therefore, consideration needs to be given to long-term sustainability and social value when implementing digital transformation initiatives in the public sector. Further, rather than focusing solely on technological advancement and digital readiness, it's crucial to recognise the broader societal benefit that can be gained.
To truly unlock the potential of 5G in public services and to deliver long term sustainability, it is essential to move beyond pilots and trials. It's vital to ensure ahead of any pilot project that consideration is given to devising a business model that is self-sustaining.
A Collaborative and Customer-Centric Approach
Ley contributing success factors include a strategic approach to implementation, active engagement of stakeholders, and a customer-centric approach. Particularly, engaging stakeholders in the process of designing 5G initiatives, such as potential users, businesses, local communities, and governmental bodies, ensures a collaborative environment that facilitates innovation and growth and most importantly demonstrates there is demand for the proposed 5G use case.
Collaboration between stakeholders including technology experts, policymakers, industry representatives, and end-users, brings a diverse range of perspectives and expertise to the table. This fosters a synergy that enables successful 5G deployments and contributes to the growth and sustainability of the 5G deployment, ensuring the greatest potential societal impact and reduces the risk of failure.
The success or failure of a 5G deployment hinges on how well it aligns with and addresses the needs and preferences of its customers, making a customer-centric and user led approach of paramount importance.
Adapting Business Models and Embracing Flexibility
In an era of rapid technological advancement, public authorities find themselves at a critical juncture. With diminishing public subsidies and funds, maintaining transparency in their operations and business models is imperative. Here, 5G emerges as a linchpin in their digital transformation journey, potentially bridging the gap between resource constraints and technological progress. However, the dynamic nature of technology means that the initial objectives of a project may evolve over time.
There are two key implications as a result for public bodies to consider. Firstly, public bodies must remain agile and adaptable in their approach, embracing digital tools and strategies that facilitate whole-council outcomes. Secondly, 5G solutions and business cases should be designed to accommodate changing conditions and stack multiple use cases seamlessly.
In this environment, openness to transformation and a forward-thinking approach are not just strategies; they are imperatives for public authorities to harness the full potential of 5G over a long term.
Conclusion
The transformative potential of 5G technology, especially in the realm of public services, necessitates a careful consideration of digital transformation, successful implementation, and innovative business models. By focusing on these themes, public bodies can effectively harness the potential of 5G, ultimately creating sustainable and efficient solutions that enhance the public services landscape and benefit society at large.
About Intelligens Consulting
Intelligens Consulting is an independent telecoms, smart city, and digital transformation management consultant to investors, operators, and public bodies. Our team of senior advisors are skilled in strategy, data, finance, economics and technology. Reach out to us at info@IntelligensConsulting.com to find out how we can help you or to discuss anything else mentioned in this article.
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