IVRy Partners with Nara Prefecture to Address Local Administrative Challenges

IVRy Partners with Nara Prefecture

In an exciting development for the startup landscape, IVRy, a Tokyo-based company, has been selected as a partner for Nara Prefecture's initiative aimed at addressing local administrative challenges through innovative solutions. This initiative, known as 'Dive+Su Meetup', is managed by eiicon and focuses on tackling nine administrative issues, including urban development, community revitalization, and digital transformation in public administration.

Background and Challenges

One pressing challenge identified in the region is the accessibility of transportation for residents in Uda City. The local government operates a public rideshare service called 'Nokkaru Okuda,' which serves as a critical means of transportation for the community. However, many elderly residents find using modern technology, such as smartphones, daunting, making it difficult for them to utilize the service. Additionally, the current system has limited human resources available to handle phone reservations, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for service utilization.

To improve this situation, the proposed experimental plan will leverage AI technology to streamline the phone reservation process for 'Nokkaru Okuda', aiming to create a sustainable regional transportation model.

Overview of the Proof of Concept

The core of this proof of concept lies in the implementation of IVRy's AI receptionist and SMS messaging capabilities, which will automate the reservation process. Here’s how it works:

1. AI-Powered Voice Reservations

Users can simply call a dedicated phone line where an AI assistant will guide them through the reservation process. This system ensures that no complex app registrations or touchscreen interactions are required, making it user-friendly for seniors.

2. Smooth Transition to Online Reservations

For those who are comfortable with smartphones, the AI will send them SMS messages containing a URL for making online reservations via LINE. This hybrid approach encourages a seamless transition from traditional calling methods to more modern digital solutions.

3. Reducing Staff Workload and Zero Missed Opportunities

By automating the reservation process, staff can focus on critical tasks that require human intervention, such as emergency consultations. With 24/7 availability, the AI ensures that no calls for reservations are missed, thus maximizing service utilization and minimizing opportunities lost due to missed calls.

Future Prospects

Through this pilot program, the effectiveness of these innovations in enhancing resident convenience and alleviating operational burdens will be thoroughly evaluated. Looking ahead, the initiative aims not only to create a sustainable transportation model but also to potentially expand its reach to other municipalities.

The 'Nara Prefecture Startup Public Procurement Promotion Project' aims to foster a culture of open innovation between the government and startups. By facilitating public procurement for companies that provide new technologies or services, Nara seeks to address local challenges while simultaneously promoting sustainable economic growth within the region.

Having hosted a government pitch event to outline its priority areas for administrative improvement, Nara Prefecture is setting the stage for collaborative efforts where startups can actively participate in solving these challenges through their innovative solutions.

This initiative illustrates how strategic partnerships between government and startups can lead to innovative solutions that are not only efficient but also tailored to the specific needs of local communities. As more municipalities consider similar approaches, the potential for growth and improvement in public services is immense.

For more information about IVRy's initiatives and technological solutions, including the AI receptionist service, visit IVRy’s official website. As they continue to revolutionize customer service through AI, IVRy stands as a promising model for public-private collaboration aimed at community enhancement.

Company Overview

Company: IVRy
CEO: Ryoha Okunishi
Founded: March 2019
Location: 10F, Sumitomo Real Estate Tokyu Mita Garden Tower, 3-5-19 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Contact: 050-3204-4610
Website: IVRy Company