#Japan #Generative AI #Fukuoka #And-Dot Inc. #Fukuoka Municipal

Harnessing AI for Municipal Innovation

In a significant move towards digital transformation, And-Dot Inc. recently held a workshop titled "Generative AI Utilization Workshop for Promoting Municipal DX" at the Fukuoka Prefectural Municipal Training Center. This event gathered 41 municipal employees from 26 local governments, including 15 cities and 11 towns, all eager to explore how AI can revolutionize their work environments.

With AI tools increasingly being integrated within local government operations, many employees are still struggling with its practical application. Common challenges faced include uncertainty on how to effectively leverage these tools and the issue of limited adoption across departments. Recognizing these hurdles, And-Dot designed a comprehensive workshop aimed at transforming employees into adept users of AI technologies.

Workshop Overview and Aims

The primary goal of this workshop was to combat the stagnation often experienced post-AI implementation by equipping each participant with the skills necessary to utilize AI proficiently. The training program emphasized practical skill development, derived from And-Dot’s unique "AI Skill Pyramid" model. Rather than just providing a superficial introduction to the tools, the workshop offered a structured approach to understanding generative AI, complete with real-world examples and insights on immediate application in work tasks.

Idea Generation Workshop

During the session, participants actively contemplated which tasks they could delegate to AI, leading to a wealth of innovative ideas tailored to enhance their operations. Discussions spanned various areas, including improved efficiency in work processes, elevated resident services, and reduced stress on employees. The ideas were not only relevant but showcased a proactive approach toward embracing technology in governance:

• - Document Creation and Management: Streamlining writing tasks like message drafting, email and chat formulation, and crafting communication materials for community engagement.
• - Manual and Guide Development: Creating comprehensive guidelines, analyzing existing manuals, and condensing disaster response protocols.
• - Planning and Ideation: Engaging in project planning, event conceptualization, and the formation of curriculum proposals.

Participant Feedback and Outcomes

The workshop led to impressive quantitative results, achieving a 100% satisfaction rate among participants. Post-workshop surveys revealed that all attendees rated the content highly, with 90.2% finding the difficulty level appropriate.

Qualitative feedback indicated a robust shift in mindset, with attendees expressing newfound confidence in utilizing AI technology to solve problems. One participant noted, "The instructor's explanations were clear and informative, and I am eager to apply what I have learned to my daily responsibilities." Another remarked, "The structured approach to generative AI clarified many of my uncertainties regarding its use." Additionally, participants acknowledged overcoming skepticism from colleagues, feeling empowered by their enhanced understanding of AI applications.

Key Challenges Identified

Furthermore, the workshop served as a platform to reveal underlying challenges in municipal DX strategies. An overwhelming 70.7% of participants acknowledged that the promotion of AI usage within their organizations remained insufficient, highlighting the difficulties in transitioning from AI implementation to sustained, effective application across departments.

Looking Ahead: Cultivating AI Talent

And-Dot remains committed to advancing training programs focused on developing practical AI skills. The findings from this workshop have informed their strategies for future initiatives, where they plan to roll out more educational programs specifically tailored for municipalities. By continuing to support the journey from AI adoption to thorough integration, And-Dot aims to elevate the overall capabilities of municipal staff across the nation in harnessing AI technologies.

Instructor Highlight

The workshop was led by Ichiki Komori, an AI specialist at And-Dot. With a background as a Cloud Solution Architect at a multinational IT company, he has extensive experience in implementing Azure technologies and generative AI in public and enterprise sectors. Since joining And-Dot, he has been instrumental in shaping AI training programs that cater to the evolving needs of today’s workforce.

About And-Dot Inc.

Founded by Yuta Ibaraki, And-Dot Inc. specializes in generative AI solutions. Headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, the company focuses on innovation and support for DX initiatives across various sectors.

For further information, you can visit And-Dot’s Website.