Finally, public sector organizations need a reimagined, tailored employee experience that treats every worker as a unique individual across the whole employee lifecycle, from recruitment to development, recognition and rewards, and wellbeing. As James Stewart, CTO, Public Digital, UK says, “You need a very strong employee experience strategy that isn't just lip service. It has to be real and it has to be tangible for employees.” Structured career paths will help workers progress and fulfil their career ambitions. Feedback is essential, with frequent “pulse” surveys of workers and citizens, maintaining a strong link between work and the ultimate citizen experience, to help build a stronger sense of pride and purpose. New modern, hybrid workplaces will allow for a balance between wellbeing and productivity. Get it right, and the public sector should be set for an exciting decade of innovation that is attractive to both existing workers and potential recruits.
To dive deeper into this area of the framework read: How governments can foster a digital-first culture in their workforce.
Conclusion
In a digital state, the public sector workforce will be characterized by new skills, fluid organizational structures, flexible teams and working hours, and a mix of employees and contractors. Above all, it will be centered around the citizen and measured on innovation and citizen experience.
While change is hard, standing still is not an option. Governments should prioritize the digital transformation agenda. But this will only yield the desired results if the workforce is equipped, and motivated, to use technology to build a better world for its citizens.
There are lessons to be learned from the pioneers, and in our study we include examples of good practices from around the world. We present a vision for the future public sector workforce and recommend the key actions to help governments provide a 21st century citizen experience.