Estonia is one of the most digitally advanced nations in Europe – 99% of its governmental services are delivered online. So, I was delighted to have a conversation recently with Siim Sikkut, the Government Chief Information Officer of Estonia, about his views on how governments can approach digitization, to truly simplify and improve peoples’ daily lives. I really loved the many very tangible examples of this that he shared! We covered a lot of ground during our chat – including how marriage might be one of the few remaining services that still can’t be done digitally! – but there were three main takeaways that stuck with me. 1. Size doesn’t matter – whether it’s a small country or a large one, what matters is the speed and complexity of how decision-making is done 2. Improving peoples’ lives is the end goal – whatever system is put in place, it has to be focused on solving real problems in citizens’ lives, not just amending bureaucracy and processes 3. Design with users in mind – those who design the system need to connect the dots behind the scenes; for citizens who use them, government services should feel useful, seamless – and ideally completely invisible. Although Siim will soon be moving on from his role with the Government of Estonia, I’m sure people will be enjoying the amazing impact of the digital strategies he has put in place already for many years to come. And I grateful for this open dialogue that is inspiring for everyone – regardless of country you live in or organization you lead. Thanks again for an enlightening conversation, Siim – though it is the end of an era, I cannot wait to see where what comes next, for you and for Estonia! #DigitalHotspotCEE #digitalgovernment #MicrosoftCEE Joacim Damgard Kostas Loukas Chrysafidis Evangelos Adrian Georgescu Alexander K. Antonis Oikonomou Bartosz Stebnicki Lenka Axlerová Panayiotis Ioannou Zoltan Kilian Ruthy Kaidar David Frantik George Petrakides Ratko Mutavdzic Zinaida Kudrina
Thanks Philippe for highlighting my country! Super work from Siim Sikkut, and the team -- the vision and strategy over the years.
Very inspiring conversation Philippe. This is the impact we strive for with all our customers. 🙂
Impressive! If you can already think about UX as a next step, you're far ahead :-)
Philippe, was pure fun to have this chat - thanks for making it + kind wishes
It was a privilege to be asked to do this VO for Microsoft and Estonia!
Interesting article, thank you Philippe Rogge. Here’s hoping that the new German government will look to a digital transformation leader like Estonia for inspiration!
Love it - great conversation and so true - just do it ! The Estonians are far ahead and yet still innovating - great discussion Siim and Philippe !! 🌷💐👍
Great conversation! I am sure Anton Hummel is proud to see this interview. Elena Semenova in regards to digital governments in CEE
General Manager, Financial Services Industry, Microsoft UK
2yReally inspiring! Estonia story is a great example on the impact public sector digitization can have on our daily lives.