#Japan #Digital Innovation #Tokyo #AI Transformation #GovTech Tokyo

Significant Discussion on DX and AX Promotion in Local Governments

On July 5, 2023, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, in collaboration with the General Incorporated Foundation GovTech Tokyo, hosted the "GovTech Conference – Advancing DX and AX Across Japan". This event brought together 111 representatives from 28 prefectures to address the critical importance of digital transformation (DX) and AI transformation (AX) within local administrations.

The Role of DX and AX

DX is essential for modernizing processes and improving services across government sectors. AX, which stands for AI Transformation, involves utilizing AI technologies to fundamentally reshape organizational processes and business models. As the country grapples with population decline, ensuring high-quality administrative services through cooperation and shared expertise is vital.

The conference was structured into two main parts. The first section focused on the challenges and efforts regarding DX and AX promotion among prefectures. Influential speakers included Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, Ishikawa Governor Masanori Yamano, Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki, Hiroshima Governor Mika Yokota, and Kagawa Governor Toyohito Ikeda (who participated online).

During her opening remarks, Governor Koike emphasized the rapid advancements in digital technologies and their significant implications for government operations. She highlighted the necessity for prefectures to collaborate, share knowledge, and utilize digital platforms to enhance service quality. Koike underscored the importance of extending the benefits of digital technology across Japan, thereby enhancing citizen convenience and fostering national growth.

Following her presentation, the participating governors shared their individual regional challenges and discussed how DX and AX could be implemented to address these issues. This interactive session fostered a robust exchange of ideas regarding the role of AI in local governance and the need for inter-prefectural collaborative efforts.

In concluding this segment, Governor Koike remarked that in a rapidly changing world, sharing knowledge and experiences across municipalities is crucial for transforming AX initiatives into meaningful changes. This observation led to a shared commitment to strengthen collaborative efforts across different regions.

Insights on AI Utilization in Local Governments

The second part of the conference revolved around exploring the potential of AI in local governance and the future of AX initiatives. Presentations were delivered by representatives from the Digital Agency, GovTech Tokyo, and several private sector enterprises.

Key speakers included:

• - Ikusei Miura, Digital Director at the Digital Agency
• - Kentaro Nanao, Public Sector Operations Manager at Anthropic Japan
• - Nonoka Taniguchi, COO of Polimill Co., Ltd.
• - Ayashi Izumi, Executive Officer at Google Cloud Japan
• - Kunihiro Ohyama, Executive Officer at Microsoft Japan
• - Masahiro Ihara, Executive Director & CTO of GovTech Tokyo

After the presentations, a networking session allowed more than 100 participants to engage in discussions and share insights. This collaborative atmosphere encouraged further interactions and exchanges of innovative ideas around the application of technology in government.

About GovTech Conference

The GovTech Conference is an initiative by GovTech Tokyo aimed at facilitating open discussions about the past, present, and future of technology use in public administration. Established in 2023, GovTech Tokyo serves as a platform to effectively promote DX across the Tokyo region, aligning with the "Tokyo 2050 Strategy," which emphasizes mutual support and prosperity among various regions in Japan.

In summary, the conference marked a critical step towards fostering a collective vision for effective governance through the integration of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, aiming for a more connected and innovative public sector.