Posts List

What are India’s Top 10 Mega Projects Powering Growth and Investment Opportunities?
India’s Mega Projects Driving the Future
India, the world’s fifth-largest economy, is undergoing one of the most ambitious infrastructure transformations in modern history. From record-breaking renewable energy parks to state-of-the-art expressways, industrial corridors, and bullet trains, the country is creating an economic backbone to support its vision of becoming a developed nation under Mission 2047.
These India mega projects are not simply about building roads, bridges, or power plan

DTA Digital Investment Plan vs ACT Technology Investment Framework: A Comparative Guide to Smarter Government Technology Spending
Why Digital Investment Frameworks are crucial for Government
Across Australia, government agencies are under increasing pressure to modernise technology, improve services, and use public funds responsibly. Achieving this requires more than just buying new systems — it demands structured, transparent, and forward-looking investment planning.
Two major approaches stand out: the Australian Digital Technology Agency’s Digital Investment Plan (DIP) and the ACT Government’s Technology Investment

Five Key Steps to Get Your Workflow Ready for AI Automation
The five steps to get a workflow ready for AI automation
In today’s fast-moving business world, AI workflow automation is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. By automating routine and repetitive tasks using AI, organisations can boost efficiency, reduce errors, and scale their operations with ease. Whether it’s sorting customer requests, processing invoices, or generating reports, AI-driven automation is reshaping how work gets done.
But how do you prepare your workflows for AI automation

How Tools Like Humphrey AI Could Help at Each Stage of the Policy Development Process
How Tools Like Humphrey AI help the Policy Development Process
In today’s fast-paced government environment, policy development needs to be both thorough and agile. While traditional processes remain important, the reality is that modern priorities demand faster decision-making, better data integration, and more transparent engagement. Tools like Humphrey AI (see article: HumphreyAI) and similar AI-enabled platforms – could offer valuable support at every stage of the policy cycle.

How the UK Government’s Humphrey AI Is Transforming Policy Making – Lessons for the Future
Humphrey AI for Government Policy Making
In the corridors of Whitehall, where tradition meets transformation, a quiet revolution is taking place. The UK government has developed Humphrey AI, a suite of artificial intelligence tools designed to speed up decision-making, analyse public consultations, and make civil service work more efficient.
Named after the fictional permanent secretary from Yes Minister, Humphrey is more than a digital upgrade – it represents a fundamental shift in how go

Policy Development in Modern Government: How It Should Look, How It Often Looks, and How It Must Adapt
Why Policy Development Matters More Than Ever
Policy development is one of the most important processes in modern governance. It shapes how governments respond to social challenges, economic pressures, and environmental risks. In theory, policy development should be a well-structured, evidence-driven, and inclusive process that produces effective solutions. In practice, however, the reality often looks very different.
Too often, policy development is reactive, rushed, and shaped by politic

Top 10 Real-World Applications of the Internet of Things (IoT)
Why IoT is Changing Everything
The Internet of Things (IoT) has become one of the most important digital technologies shaping our world today. It refers to the growing network of physical devices connected to the internet, collecting and exchanging data. These devices range from smartwatches and fridges to factory machines and traffic sensors. IoT is helping businesses, cities, farms, and homes become smarter, faster, and more efficient.
In this article, we explore the top 10 real-world ap

How South Korea Is Balancing AI Regulation and Innovation: Lessons for Governments Worldwide
Getting the Balance Right with AI regulation
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how countries work, compete, and deliver services. But for governments, the big challenge is finding the right balance — supporting innovation without losing control. South Korea is showing the world how this can be done.
By combining flexible regulation, smart investment, and a strong public sector push, South Korea is creating a model that protects citizens while allowing AI to thrive. This article

How South Korea Became a Global Innovation Powerhouse: Lessons for Other Nations
A New Era of Innovation Leadership
South Korea has transformed from a war-torn, resource-poor country into one of the most advanced and innovative economies in the world. Its global leadership in sectors like semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and consumer electronics is no accident. It's the result of strategic planning, targeted investment in research and development (R&D), and a growing ecosystem of startups and global collaborations. This article explores how South Ko

Why Infrastructure Pipelines Are Essential for Long-Term Planning
Building for the Future Starts with a Clear Plan
Strong, sustainable infrastructure doesn't happen by accident. It starts with smart planning, reliable forecasting, and well-structured investment pathways. One of the most powerful tools governments and industries can use for this is the infrastructure pipeline. Infrastructure pipelines provide a long-term view of upcoming projects, helping governments, investors, and industry to plan ahead, allocate resources effectively, and drive economic g

Re-imagining Stadium Economics: Designing Multi-Use, Multi-Revenue Venues for the Future
Multi-use stadium design to lock in sustainable economic benefits
Stadiums are no longer just places to watch sport. Around the world, the most successful and sustainable venues are being transformed into vibrant hubs that serve their communities every day, not just on matchdays. In the face of rising costs, changing fan expectations, and shifting urban priorities, the future of stadiums lies in innovation, multi-functionality, and mixed-use integration.

Reimagining embassies and trade offices as national brand showcases
A new era for diplomacy and trade promotion
Traditionally, embassies and consulates have served as the official outposts of a nation’s foreign policy—handling visas, diplomacy, and consular support. Trade offices too have had clearly defined roles focused on commercial links and business development. But in today’s globally connected, brand-driven world, there is an opportunity to rethink these outposts as dynamic spaces to build a stronger national image, boost exports, and tell a compelling

Why Governments Should Run Hackathons: Unlocking Innovation, AI and Community Engagement
The power of government hackathons
Hackathons are not just for tech startups or Silicon Valley anymore. Around the world, governments are beginning to realise that hackathons can be powerful tools to solve public challenges, engage communities, and accelerate digital transformation. By bringing together developers, policy experts, citizens, and industry partners for short, focused bursts of creative work, governments can unlock smarter solutions, faster service delivery, and better use of dat

What Is the Singapore Government Tech Stack? A Smart Model for Digital Government Transformation
How Singapore Is Leading in Digital Government
Singapore is often seen as a leader in digital innovation—and for good reason. Its Government Technology Agency, GovTech, has developed a powerful digital foundation called the Singapore Government Tech Stack (SGTS). This stack is not a standalone IT system; it's a complete toolkit that helps government agencies build modern, secure, and user-friendly digital services quickly.
At its core, SGTS is about making government services easier to bui

The five essential layers of the government digital stack: building a smarter digital future
What are the five key layers for a government digital stack?
Governments around the world are working to modernise how they deliver services. To do this successfully, they need digital systems that are fast, reliable, and easy to connect across different government agencies. The government digital stack model provides a way to build this kind of digital infrastructure. It breaks down complex systems into five key components or layers that work together.
In this article, we’ll explain these

From Agency IT to Whole-of-Government Platforms: A Modular Approach to Digital Transformation
From agency IT to whole-of-government platforms
Governments worldwide are confronting rising demands for efficient, scalable digital services. Instead of each agency building its own IT systems, many countries are now adopting whole-of-government digital infrastructure strategies. These strategies use reusable and interoperable software components—called "building blocks"—to create shared platforms that reduce duplication, improve citizen experience, and increase speed to deployment.
This

Centralised vs decentralised government digital infrastructure: which is better for the public sector?
Centralised vs Decentralised Government Digital Infrastructure: Benefits for the Public Sector
Governments across the world are rethinking how they build and manage digital infrastructure. At the heart of this debate is the choice between centralised and decentralised approaches. Should one part of government control and manage all digital systems? Or should each government department or agency build and run its own?
This question affects the way public services are delivered, how secure a

Assab Port: A Win-Win Economic Opportunity for Eritrea and Ethiopia
A moment of opportunity for the Horn of Africa
In the heart of the Horn of Africa, Eritrea’s Assab Port could soon become one of the most important economic gateways on the Red Sea. With Ethiopia actively seeking better access to maritime trade, and Saudi Arabia showing interest in port development, a real opportunity has emerged. This moment offers not just potential gains for Ethiopia but also a once-in-a-generation chance for Eritrea to unlock long-term economic growth.
By modernising A

How the UK Government is Streamlining Agile Digital Projects: A Smarter Approach to IT Delivery
UK Government's Strategy for Streamlining Agile Digital Projects: Enhancing IT Delivery Efficiency
The UK Government has updated its approach to planning and approving digital and IT projects. By embracing agile methods, it’s creating faster, more cost-effective systems while reducing bureaucracy. This article explores what these updates mean, how they work, and why they matter—especially for project leaders and public sector organisations.
Why Agile Now?
In a digital age where speed, f

The UK Government's Journey with Scaled Agile: How Public Services Are Changing for the Better
Changing how the UK government builds digital services
In the past, government projects often followed a strict, step-by-step approach. This worked well for building roads and bridges, but not for creating digital services in a world where technology and public needs change fast. That’s where agile comes in.
The UK government now uses agile delivery methods to build better digital services. Agile means working in small steps, testing early, listening to users, and improving based on what’s

Dual-purpose military engineering: boosting defence and building nations
Maximising civilian use cases from military engineering assets
Governments around the world are under increasing pressure to boost defence spending. From geopolitical tensions with Russia and China to pressure from key allies like the United States, many developed nations are preparing for a more uncertain future. But there's a smart way to increase military budgets that also benefits the economy: by investing in dual-use engineering capabilities within the armed forces.
This article exp

How Iconic Buildings Boost Local Economies and Shape Cities
Iconic buildings do more than catch your eye. They help shape the future of cities by attracting investment, tourism, and community pride. From the Eiffel Tower to the Sydney Opera House, these famous landmarks are not just impressive structures—they are engines of economic opportunity.
This article explores how iconic architecture can boost urban life, support local economies, and define city identity. We'll also take a closer look at why these buildings matter and how they impact the quali

Azerbaijan’s Economic Rise: Unlocking Opportunities in a Changing Region -How peace, partnerships, and reforms are reshaping Azerbaijan’s investment potential.
Azerbaijan is entering a new phase. Known for its rich oil and gas reserves, it is now moving beyond energy to build a more diverse, modern economy. At the same time, a shift in political relationships is opening the door to fresh opportunities across transport, trade, tourism, and technology.
The peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan in late 2024 marked a turning point for the South Caucasus. Alongside internal reforms and a growing focus on the non-oil economy, Azerbaijan is now be

Riding the wave: the economic power of surf parks and where investment is growing
Surfing is no longer just a coastal sport. Thanks to modern wave technology, surf parks are popping up in cities and regions far from the ocean. These parks are reshaping recreation, tourism, and real estate—and they’re attracting serious attention from investors. With outdoor sports growing in popularity and people looking for more exciting ways to stay active, surf parks are emerging as one of the most promising leisure investments today.
This article explores how surf parks create economic

How Digital Technology Is Transforming Remote Healthcare: A New Era of Access and Innovation
Access to healthcare has long been a challenge for people living in rural or remote areas. For many, the nearest clinic or hospital might be hours away. But thanks to advances in digital technology, the healthcare system is undergoing a major shift.
From virtual doctor visits and health apps to wearable sensors and remote patient monitoring (RPM), these innovations are changing how care is delivered. Patients can now connect with doctors, manage chronic illnesses, and even take part in clinic

How Digital Twins Are Transforming Healthcare: Top Use Cases
The future of medicine is here
Imagine a virtual version of your body that grows, learns, and responds just like you. That’s the idea behind a “digital twin” — a smart, virtual model powered by real data. In healthcare, digital twins are changing the game. From personalised treatment to faster drug testing and better hospital planning, these digital models are giving doctors new tools to keep people healthier, for longer.
This article breaks down the most exciting uses of digital twins in

The future of wearable medical devices: emerging trends and market momentum
Wearable medical devices have moved beyond the realm of fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy users. What once started as simple heart rate monitors and activity trackers is now a booming health technology sector. These devices are helping people monitor chronic illnesses, detect warning signs earlier, and communicate vital health information in real-time. They are shifting healthcare from hospitals and clinics into homes, workplaces, and daily life. As demand for personalised and connected heal

How Mega Projects Are Reshaping Our Planet
How mega projects are reshaping our planet
Around the world, governments and private investors are launching huge infrastructure projects that aim to reshape how we live, travel, and work. These projects aren’t just big in size—they come with huge budgets, cutting-edge technology, and long-term ambitions for sustainability, economic growth, and global collaboration.
In this updated list, we bring together insights from several sources to highlight the top 10 biggest infrastructure projects

Mastering Cloud Costs with FinOps on Google Cloud
Bringing visibility and accountability to cloud spending
Managing cloud costs effectively is becoming more important as organisations grow their use of the cloud. FinOps—a framework for aligning engineering, finance and business teams—helps build shared responsibility and improve financial decision-making.
This article explores how Google Cloud (GCP) supports FinOps goals through tools such as FinOps Hub 2.0, Gemini Cloud Assist, and Google’s built-in billing and optimisation services. The

Using AWS Tools to Support FinOps in the Cloud
Understanding AWS’s approach to cloud cost management
As cloud environments grow in complexity, organisations are seeking new ways to gain visibility into costs and improve financial accountability. One approach gaining traction is FinOps—a framework for managing cloud spending that brings together engineering, finance and operations.
This article explores how AWS tools and services can support a FinOps strategy. It outlines what AWS currently offers, from cost tracking tools to emerging A

Why Tagging is the Secret to FinOps Success
How tagging makes FinOps possible
Tagging cloud resources might sound simple, but it plays a major role in controlling costs, improving visibility, and building a strong FinOps culture. Whether you’re a government agency, a non-profit, or a large enterprise, tagging is essential to understanding who’s using what—and why.
In this article, we explain why tagging and labelling are critical in FinOps, how they help teams across finance and IT work together, and what best practices you should f

Building a Winning Organisational Culture for FinOps Success
Why culture matters for FinOps success
FinOps is more than just a financial tool—it’s a culture shift. As governments and public agencies shift more services to the cloud, it becomes vital to manage costs in a smart and transparent way. This is where FinOps (short for Financial Operations) comes in. It helps teams across finance, IT, procurement and leadership work together to make better decisions with cloud spending.
But FinOps only works well if the right organisational culture is in pl

How Governments are using administrative data to modernise the census
The census is changing and administrative data is a key part of this
The population and housing census is one of the most important tools a government has. It tells us how many people live in a country, where they live, and what their lives are like. This information helps governments plan for schools, hospitals, transport, jobs, and social services.
For years, censuses were done in a traditional way: sending out thousands of staff to go door-to-door and ask people questions. But now, man

Exploring the Divergent Paths of Public Sector Software Engineering: Insights from the UK and Singapore
Comparing Public Sector Software Engineering in the UK and Singapore
As governments race to digitise their services and meet rising public expectations, software engineering has become central to delivering smarter, faster, and more citizen-centred outcomes. The United Kingdom and Singapore have taken ambitious yet distinct approaches to cultivating software engineering excellence across their public sectors. While the UK fosters community-led collaboration through its Cross-Government Softwa

How countries can lift national Productivity: bold moves, better competition, and inclusive growth
Rethinking what drives national productivity
When we talk about boosting a nation’s productivity, most people imagine millions of firms gradually becoming more efficient. But real-world data tells a different story. In fact, a small number of firms — national champions — are responsible for the majority of productivity gains.
These are the businesses that find new ways to grow, scale, and shift value. Rather than inching forward, they take bold strides that reshape entire sectors.
At t

The future of policy making: how Artificial intelligence is reshaping government decision-making
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant innovation on the horizon—it is now playing a pivotal role in changing how government policy is developed, written, and delivered. AI-powered tools that can summarise complex data, draft content, refine documents, and even present information in a compelling and accessible format are beginning to revolutionise the public sector.
These technologies promise to cut through bureaucracy, reduce manual workload, and increase the quality and speed

How to build a digital twin for urban planning: five essential steps
What are the five steps to build a digital twin for urban planning?
The development of a digital twin involves careful planning, phased implementation, and cross-functional collaboration. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for city governments and urban planners.

Why Brisbane is emerging as Australia's next tech powerhouse and global innovation hub
Why Brisbane deserves your attention
When people think of global tech hotspots, they might first picture Silicon Valley, Singapore, or Tel Aviv. But increasingly, eyes are turning to Brisbane. With momentum building across startups, advanced manufacturing, and quantum computing, Queensland’s capital is quietly—but rapidly—shaping up as a serious contender in the next wave of global technology development.
The city is riding a wave of post-pandemic growth, capitalising on its strategic loca

Why mobile phone data is essential for managing events and event centres
Modern events and public venues operate in an environment where expectations are high, risks are real, and the margin for error is shrinking. Whether it’s a one-off music festival or a large shopping centre welcoming thousands each day, failing to understand how people move, behave, and react within these spaces can lead to operational chaos, safety risks, and missed commercial opportunities.
The solution is already in our hands—literally. Mobile phones, carried by nearly every attendee or vi

How can organisation culture hold back AI adoption?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is fast becoming a defining feature of modern organisations. It’s not just a new tool—it’s a new way of working, deciding, and thinking. As digital transformation accelerates across sectors, the push to integrate AI into core business processes has become urgent. But while most organisations have focused heavily on technical readiness—building data infrastructure, training teams in AI tools, and investing in new platforms—they’ve often overlooked the cultural side of

Why aren’t transport planners using mobile phone data? Missed opportunities in transport planning
As cities grow, mobility needs become increasingly complex. Transport planners are tasked with designing systems that reflect real-world behaviours—where, when, and how people move.
Traditionally, this insight has been derived from costly and infrequent travel surveys or data collected via road sensors and ticketing systems. But a far richer, more continuous source of information already exists: the data generated by our mobile phones. Known as Mobile Phone
Data (MPD), this form of passive

How can gamification work in government?
Gamification can be described as the integration of game‑inspired reward systems, narrative structures and feedback loops into activities that are not traditionally playful. The aim is not entertainment for its own sake; rather, it is to harness the motivational pull of games to advance policy goals.

What is quantum resistance and why should you care?
Quantum resistance refers to a new generation of cryptographic techniques designed to withstand attacks from quantum computers. These techniques—also known as post-quantum or quantum-safe cryptography—are being developed to ensure that the information we secure today cannot be compromised by the technologies of tomorrow. As the potential of quantum computing grows, so too does the urgency of adopting encryption methods that can survive its impact.
This article explores the importance of quant

What is the future of digital payment systems?
Digital payment systems are undergoing a profound transformation. The past decade has seen the gradual shift from cash to card, then from card to mobile, and now to something far broader — a fully integrated digital financial ecosystem. What began as a convenience has become an expectation, and as technology continues to evolve rapidly, the lines between payments, identity, mobility, data, and commerce are blurring. The convergence of mobile, artificial intelligence (AI), open banking, and even

How can mobile phone data be used for government policy development?
Across many high-income countries, governments are struggling to modernise how they design and deliver policy, often constrained by legacy systems, fragmented data, and a lack of real-time insights. While elected leaders call for smarter, more efficient public services, the tools available to them frequently lag behind expectations. At the same time, mobile network operators have yet to fully explore the value of repurposing anonymised mobile phone data (MPD) to support evidence-based decision-m

How can advances in data, cloud computing, and AI enable a new era of government digital transformation?
How can advances in data, cloud computing, and AI enable a new era of government digital transformation?At the centre of the opportunity is the convergence of: data. Advances in data architecture, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) and this is ushering in a new era of digital transformation, with governments seeking ways to harness these capabilities for everything from pandemic response to social services management.

What is the emerging opportunity of eVTOLs - the next era of aviation
Is mobility is on the cusp of a sustainable aviation transformation?
For decades, aviation has largely been the domain of airports, long-haul routes, and tightly controlled airspaces. Now, with the emergence of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a new chapter is beginning—one that reimagines how people and goods move through the skies above cities and regions. While still in the development phase, eVTOLs are being seen as a promising solution to congestion, emissions, a

Why Brisbane needs to accelerate urban greening initiatives
Brisbane’s subtropical climate is one of its defining features, shaping its identity and lifestyle. However, the city is increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, particularly prolonged periods of extreme heat. The central business district (CBD), dominated by hard surfaces and dense development, amplifies urban heat island effects, reducing comfort, walkability, and public amenity.
As temperatures rise, there is growing recognition that Brisbane must embrace a new approach to

Gulf investment in Egypt: reshaping partnerships, reform, and economic ambition
A new wave of Gulf support for Egypt
Egypt’s economy has long relied on international support during times of stress. But in 2024 and 2025, the scale and form of that support shifted dramatically. Gulf states—especially the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia—have stepped forward not just with loans or aid, but with large, strategic investments.
This new approach blends economic opportunity with geopolitical influence. It comes as Egypt faces one of its most serious financial chall

...its time for the Public Service to shift to a modern tech stack
Citizens deserve better. Let’s be honest. Governments have not been as proactive or deliberate as they should have been when it comes to modernising their technology. While industries across the board have made major advances, the public sector has often lagged behind. Systems are outdated. Data sits in silos. Many services are slow, difficult to use, or simply fail to meet people’s expectations. Citizens expect better. And they should. The technology exists today to make government more he

What impact is China having on Thailand's economy?
Thailand’s economic trajectory, once buoyed by strong regional linkages and a thriving tourism sector, is increasingly being shaped by the evolving situation in China. In the past decade, China has emerged not only as Thailand’s largest trading partner but also as a primary source of investment, tourism, and even migrant labour. However, with China now facing significant economic headwinds—including a real estate crisis, weakening consumer confidence, and tightening capital controls—Thailand is

Why governments need a new way to manage data
Governments are changing quickly. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), there is a chance to make public services more personal, quicker, and more effective. AI can find patterns, make decisions, and act with little help from people. This brings big opportunities and serious responsibilities.
To keep up, governments must change how they use data. Right now, data systems are often slow, disconnected, and hard to manage. Data is stuck in different places, formats, or systems. Sharing a

Thailand’s uncertain medium to long-term outlook
Thailand, long viewed as a stable economic performer in Southeast Asia, is now confronting a murkier and more uncertain future. While short-term indicators may sometimes hint at resilience, the broader outlook for the country's economy in the medium to long term is far less encouraging. From persistent structural weaknesses to escalating global trade tensions, multiple pressures are converging to create an increasingly complex economic environment for Thailand.
This article explores the unde

How can film and movie location tourism boost local economies
Film and television have the unique ability to bring places to life, shaping the way audiences around the world see destinations. Locations featured in popular films can become tourism hotspots overnight. More than just a temporary surge, these sites often experience long-term benefits that extend to branding, marketing, employment, and infrastructure.
From sweeping landscapes captured on screen to quaint towns turned famous by a single scene, film tourism can be a powerful economic engine f

What are ten ways to navigate a trade war?
Navigating a trade war requires a careful strategy
In today’s volatile global trade environment, managing tariffs is not just a cost-control exercise—it’s a strategic imperative. A structured, forward-looking approach can help businesses turn compliance challenges into opportunities for competitive advantage. The following ten approaches could provide a practical roadmap for navigating and mitigating tariff risks.

Why Governments should re-consider centralising finance systems
Governments should re-consider efforts to centralise finance systems
Across many governments, finance systems have grown in silos—each agency managing its own tools, data, and processes. While this may have worked in the past, it now poses a significant challenge for governments trying to deliver coordinated, efficient, and transparent public services. Centralising finance systems isn’t just about consolidation—it’s about creating a stronger foundation for better decisions, stronger control,

What a Minister of Finance should expect from the public finance system
What should Minister of Finance or Treasurers be demanding from the Public Finance system that their Ministry of Finance uses? How integrated should this digital system be with the delivery agencies? In 2025, the Minister should be demanding the best digital and data solutions that are available on the market - not antiquated, spreadsheet based approaches. It is no longer good enough to allow some agencies to have modern FMIS systems but allow the central agency to run a legacy system. The hub

What whole-of-government, digital, public finance should look like
In a world where most government services are moving online, public finance systems in many countries remain stuck in the past. While revenue collection, taxation, digital payments, and digital identity systems have made huge strides, the financial core of government is still lagging behind. Far too often, financial departments rely on outdated systems and spreadsheets, offering little to no real-time insight into agency finances. As a result, finance ministers across the globe are being under-

In Nepal the cycle of dysfunction continues...
Nepal finds itself at a crossroads—struggling to move forward while weighed down by economic fragility, political instability, and deep-rooted corruption. What might appear on the surface as a nation hampered by suspended foreign aid and slow infrastructure progress is in fact a complex crisis touching every corner of public life. While the dream of progress endures, the harsh reality for many Nepalis—particularly in remote areas—is that their hopes are being pushed further out of reach by gover

How Australia Built an In-House Government Consultancy: Lessons for Public Sector Innovation
The rising cost of external consultants has become a growing concern for governments around the world Recognising this, the Australian Government has launched a new initiative—Australian Government Consulting (AGC)—an internal consultancy designed to reduce reliance on external firms and rebuild capability within the Australian Public Service (APS).

What is the solution to Bali's over tourism? Is it time for Bali 2.0?
Bali’s tourism model is no longer sustainable. That’s why Indonesia needs to consider a radical but pragmatic solution: developing a new tourism hub—Bali 2.0—from the ground up.

How to create a culture of fiscal discipline amongst officials
For any government genuinely aiming to improve financial sustainability, a commitment to responsible financial management must go well beyond Parliament and Cabinet. It must be firmly embedded in the day-to-day choices made by civil servants, programme leads, procurement professionals, and senior executives at every tier of government. Yet, in many departments, agencies, and working-level teams, this culture is noticeably absent. The question is how to create such a culture?

โครงสร้างพื้นฐานดิจิทัลของรัฐบาลแบบรวมศูนย์กับแบบกระจายอำนาจ อะไรดีกว่าสำหรับภาคส่วนสาธารณะ?
โครงสร้างพื้นฐานดิจิทัลของรัฐบาลแบบรวมศูนย์และแบบกระจายอำนาจ: ประโยชน์สำหรับภาคสาธารณะ
รัฐบาลทั่วโลกกำลังทบทวนวิธีการสร้างและบริหารจัดการโครงสร้างพื้นฐานดิจิทัล หัวใจสำคัญของการถกเถียงนี้คือการเลือกระหว่างแนวทางแบบ รวมศูนย์ และ แบบกระจายศูน ย์ รัฐบาลควรมีส่วนใดส่วนหนึ่งในการควบคุมและบริหารจัดการระบบดิจิทัลทั้งหมดหรือไม่ หรือหน่วยงานหรือหน่วยงานรัฐบาลแต่ละแห่งควรสร้างและบริหารจัดการของตนเอง
คำถามนี้ส่งผลต่อวิธีการให้บริการสาธารณะ ความปลอดภัยและการเชื่อมต่อของข้อมูลภาครัฐ และจำนวนเงินที่ใช้ไป

Will the idea that 'democracy with Chinese characteristics' be resurrected to help China manage its biggest risks?
As China faces mounting economic, social, environmental, and geopolitical challenges, an old conversation reemerging—both domestically and abroad—about whether a more open and participatory political model might better equip the country to respond. Could a gradual, phased evolution towards a form of “democracy with Chinese characteristics” help China mitigate some of its most pressing systemic risks?
This article explores how democratic tools like transparency, accountability, independent in

Comparing digital nomad visas: Thailand, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, and Hungary
As remote work becomes more popular, countries are responding with specialised visas designed for digital nomads. These visas allow individuals or companies to work legally while enjoying life abroad. With a wide range of options now available, it's important to compare policies to find the right fit.
This article provides a high level review of the digital nomad visa options from Thailand, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, and Hungary, focusing on eligibility, cost, duration, and key features.

Reconnecting New Zealand Towns and Cities with Their Rivers
Why did New Zealand towns turn our backs on the water?
New Zealand is a country defined by water — from alpine springs and wetlands to dramatic coastlines and powerful rivers. Yet in our towns and cities, rivers are often treated as little more than obstacles to build around or hazards to keep at bay. Urban development has frequently occurred with its back turned to rivers and streams. In these places, the practical demands of flood protection, road networks, and commercial zoning appear to h

What is the strategy behind the US tariff's?
What is really behind the tariffs launched by the US administration in 2025? Is it really as simple as seeking 'fairness' or 'generating revenue'? There are likely a wide range of reasons for the tariffs depending on the trading country and what the US believes is in its interests. This is very likely just the opening salvo in what will be a dynamic period of changing trading relationships.

Why New Zealand Could Be the World's Top Destination for Doomsday Tourism
A new kind of travel trend emerges
In recent years, a fresh and unusual type of tourism has started gaining attention around the world. It's called doomsday tourism. This article focuses on one form of doomsday tourism: the type based on exploring safe zones, survival bunkers, and historical shelters linked to global conflict and the fear of nuclear war.
It is important to not confuse this trend with other uses of the same term. Doomsday tourism is sometimes used to describe travel to plac

What is the 'users guide to re-structuring the global trading system' and why is it a big deal?
Stephen Miran’s A User’s Guide to Re-Structuring the Global Trading System presents a pathway for major shifts that could reshape how global

What are the six conditions needed for successful procurement?
In a complex field like procurement, having a clear framework can be incredibly helpful. Frameworks act like roadmaps—they guide professiona

How Seoul turned a stream into a major urban tourist attraction
Transforming a floodwater system: how Seoul turned Cheonggyecheon Stream into an urban renewal success story

Is the new Victorian Government's Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) fair?
Victoria’s (Australia) emergency services play a critical role in protecting lives and property during times of crisis, including floods, bushfires, and storms. As climate change and population pressures increase the frequency and severity of natural disasters, the demand on emergency services continues to grow. In response, the Victorian Government is replacing the existing Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) with a broader Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) from 1 July 2025. This

The impact of the Brisbane Olympic stadium on infrastructure planning and investment
The Queensland Government has unveiled ambitious plans for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with a centrepiece being the cons

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and development - a fresh view
Digital public infrastructure (DPI) is emerging as a transformative approach to digitalisation, aimed at providing foundational digital buil

Forensic accounting at scale to drive transparent and efficient Government
How forensic accounting can be undertaken at scale across governments using AI - this can be used to drive radical transparency and efficien

How can X-Road data exchange be used by other nations?
How can the X-Road data exchange model developed by Estonia be used by other nations?

Governments need to be more ambitious with the use of unstructured data for AI
Governments generate vast amounts of unstructured data from sources such as public feedback, reports, images, and videos.

Europe may now consider further financial de-coupling from US
Will Europe begin to quietly move away from US dollar as part of a broader de-coupling?

Is ACC Holding Back New Zealand’s Productivity—and What Needs to Change
Why injury management matters more than you think
New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) plays a crucial role in supporting Kiwis when they get injured. But there’s a growing concern that this well-meaning, state-run system may be doing more harm than good to the economy’s overall productivity. This article explores how the ACC scheme affects national output, the hidden cost of injuries, and how delays in rehabilitation are causing major economic losses.
Is a slow-moving sys

Basic data cleansing to enable AI
Basic data cleansing to enable AI. Discussion o the basics of data cleansing, including handling missing values, removing errors

The economic advantage of non-alignment - focusing on what counts
The economic advantage of non-alignment - focus on what counts for your nation. Lessons from India

Re-imagining a civil contingencies capability model for Australia and New Zealand
Civilian assets and capabilities could be used as a more cost effective model than the military to support national interests

Developing an AI playbook for Government
Developing an AI playbook for Government

Using Digital Public Infrastructure to accelerate digital transformation
Digital Public Infrastructure provides a way for nations to accelerate the digital transformation of its Government and economy

Transforming Public procurement
Public procurement is an area of government that is a priority for transformation and digitisation due to the wide impact it has on wider go

The Digital Government strategy in Norway
The digital strategy in Norway provides insights for other nations wanting to transform their Government. Key lessons include the focus on

A Digital Blueprint for Funding, Governance, and Assurance
A digital blueprint for funding (investment), governance and assurance that can be adapted by other jurisdictions

Rethinking Government capacity
Governments face increasing pressure to modernise their operations, enhance service delivery, and improve efficiency in an era of rapid tech

Funding for local delivery of infrastructure and services - the user pays option
Funding of local services through user pays is an increasingly important option for many regional and local governments.

AI transformation - key things for nations to consider
Government leadership, cultural shifts, and public engagement will play a critical role in shaping AI adoption. This report outlines the key

Bangladesh - Looking forward with optimism
Bangladesh is at a crossroads where it can choose to embed sustainable progress and growth or stall and slow it down. Reforms are needed an

Transforming Cities with Street Stages: How Innovative Busker Spaces Can Bring Urban Areas to Life
Public spaces should be more than just places we pass through — they should be places where creativity flourishes and communities connect. One of the simplest ways to achieve this is by supporting street performers, often known as buskers. With a guitar, a hoop, or a deck of cards, they bring life and energy to our streets. But without proper spaces to perform, many buskers are left to work in crowded, noisy, or unsafe environments. This article explores how designing and building small, perm

Public Finance for digital
Public Finance for digital is an area of growing interest to Governments wanting accelerate their digital transformation.

The new UK blueprint for digital government - lessons for other nations
The new UK blueprint for digital government offers a number of helpful takeaways for other nations considering their own digital strategy.

How could data and AI improve three methods for assessing the impact of new transport projects
How data and AI could significantly improve some models used for transport planning. Gross Value Added (GVA) analysis, Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) modelling, and Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), while also exploring emerging opportunities to integrate new data sources and artificial intelligence (AI).

What are three methods to assess the impact of new transport projects?
There are a number of methods and approaches to assessing the impact of new transport projects. Here are three that can be considered in their own right or as part of a suite of approaches.

The inevitable imperative for greater commercialisation of New Zealand national parks
New Zealand national parks and associated recreational facility faces significant funding shortfalls. Ideological reservations around commer

Securing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
How can digital public infrastructure be secured - a framework to foster inclusive and secure digital transformation

New Zealand and Australia remain OECD outliers with decentralised FMIS strategies
In 2024, the OECD released a detailed report on the state of Financial Management Information Systems (FMIS) across member countries. The report highlights prevailing trends, challenges, and technological shifts shaping the evolution of public finance management. It underscores a clear momentum towards integrated, centralised FMIS models, with just four OECD countries—New Zealand, Australia, the United States, and Ireland—maintaining decentralised systems. Notably, both the US and Ireland are ac

Geostrategic risks and digital infrastructure: a new priority for national resilience
Geostrategic Risks and Digital Infrastructure
Digital infrastructure now underpins almost every function of modern economies and governments, from communications and energy to finance, defence, and health systems. As global geopolitical tensions rise, so too do the risks to this infrastructure. Submarine cables, satellites, data centres, and cloud computing systems are increasingly becoming targets or casualties in the broader contest for strategic advantage.
This article explores how geos