#Japan #Generative AI #Tokyo #Local Government #AndDot

52 Local Governments Embrace Generative AI Training

On September 29th, AndDot Inc., a Tokyo-based company, led a session focused on the use of generative AI in local governments at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications’ training for future Digital Transformation (DX) leaders. This marks a continuation of a trend last seen when 52 municipalities participated in similar efforts the previous year.

According to a recent survey conducted by the Ministry, as of December last year, around 30% of municipalities had already begun utilizing generative AI tools for tasks such as creating meeting minutes. This number is projected to exceed 50% when considering those evaluating or planning to adopt these technologies. With a declining workforce, local governments are increasingly seeking efficient operational methods. The survey noted that 28.8% of the 1,721 municipalities reported having implemented generative AI, displaying a significant increase of 19.4 percentage points from the previous year.

Additionally, 12.3% of respondents indicated they are currently in experimental phases, while 9.7% are considering or planning adoption, contributing to an overall implementation or consideration rate of 50.8%. In contrast, 21.5% stated they had no intentions or plans to adopt such technologies. Among the prefectures, the adoption rate stands at 83%, with designated cities at 85%. Common applications for generative AI include drafting greeting messages, summarizing meeting minutes, developing proposal documents, and preparing Q&A drafts for council meetings.

Purpose of the Training Program

As part of a strategic initiative that includes standardizing information systems for local public organizations, the next phase of the DX Promotion Plan is pivotal for improving resident services through effective use of My Number cards. In response, local governments must focus on recruiting and developing digital talent, as this has become an urgent necessity.

While attracting skilled digital specialists from outside is crucial, the long-term success of DX initiatives requires cultivating talent from within local government staff. The DX Promotion Handbook emphasizes the importance of training “DX leaders” who possess specialized knowledge in digital fields and can effectively collaborate with both general administrative staff and highly skilled professionals. Accordingly, local governments are encouraged to enhance the digital literacy of all administrative personnel while actively nurturing DX leaders.

The training aims to equip these leaders with critical skills such as utilizing digital tools, specifying requirements for projects, and enhancing leadership and strategic thinking capabilities related to their respective departments.

Structured and Proven Curriculum

AndDot has developed a comprehensive generative AI support program that has been implemented in over 150 municipalities across 18 prefectures, 122 cities, and 20 towns. This program is built around three essential skills necessary for effective AI utilization.

The training also comes with practical hands-on elements that are beneficial for participants. Workshops designed to foster innovative ideas for AI implementation within their offices have received positive feedback, allowing DX promoters to return with actionable insights.

Focused Strategies for DX Promoters

The program is specifically tailored to address challenges faced by DX promoters in municipalities, emphasizing organizational outcomes rather than individual achievements. This strategic focus aims to maximize the overall impact on local governance.

In the previous fiscal year, this specialized training on DX leadership ranked highest in participant satisfaction. Building on last year's framework, the program has incorporated updated information and feedback from participants.

From tool implementation to organization-wide utilization and AI system development, AndDot is dedicated to providing ongoing support, earning a reputation as the AI solutions provider most attuned to the needs of local governments.

About AndDot Inc.

• - Company Name: AndDot Inc.
• - Representative: Yuuta Ibaraki
• - Location: 2F-O1, Futaba Building, 1-16-6 Dougenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 150-0043
• - Business Focus: Providing solutions utilizing generative AI and related services
• - Website: https://and-dot.co.jp

For media inquiries regarding this release, please contact:

• - Company: AndDot Inc.
• - Headquarters: 2F-O1, Futaba Building, 1-16-6 Dougenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• - Email: [email protected]
• - Contact Person: Hiroki Higashikawa