Top Tech Trends Reshaping Local Government in 2024 and Beyond

While local governments haven’t always been at the forefront of technological adoption, that’s changing.  In 2024 and beyond, local agencies have the same expectations of software solutions as other sectors: they’re looking for tech that offers innovative functionality, provides data-backed insights, improves interactions and enhances efficiency.  

We sat down with Avolve’s Chief Innovations Officer, Becky Tamashasky, for her take on the top tech trends shaping the future of local government today and tomorrow.  

AI Takes Center Stage 

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a futuristic concept for local governments, nor is it just being adopted by private industry. Today, jurisdictions of all sizes are actively seeking AI capabilities to streamline workflows, improve decision-making, and analyze vast amounts of data.  

"There's almost an expectation now that when there's a solution being deployed, there's an AI component available, " said Tamashasky.  

Local agencies are seeking out platforms that leverage AI to reduce errors, drive efficiency, support document management, and more. Tools like this won’t replace users but have become valuable to help local governments struggling with budget and resource constraints continue to meet the level of service expected by their communities. 

Streamlining the Plan Review Process 

Plan review technologies aren’t just trending among local jurisdictions but software vendors, too. Avolve is a long-standing expert in electronic plan review, but Tamashasky said more solution providers have noticed local agencies’ need for ePlan and are jockeying for a spot in the field. So too are permitting vendors who are increasingly strengthening partnerships with specialist vendors, keen to offer an end-to-end solution for jurisdictions.  

From an agency perspective, the nationwide housing shortage and emphasis on sustainable development are driving increased adoption of ePlan review. “A number of communities are seeking ways to get more houses built faster, which in turn requires streamlining the plan review process,” said Tamashasky.  With ordinances being put into effect that drive service level expectations for submission turnaround, electronic plan review solutions are critical for speed, accuracy and collaboration.  

Migration to the Cloud Accelerates 

Since making the switch from on-prem to SaaS can be an extended transition and there were concerns historically with data access and security, some local governments have avoided upgrading. As cloud solutions and technology have progressed, this has created challenges with interoperability, scaling solutions, and has presented security threats – all of which is now driving an accelerated migration to the cloud.  

"I'm seeing that many agencies and software solutions are announcing a timeline where SaaS will be the only option and on-prem will not be an option," Tamashasky said. 

Sustainability Drives Innovation 

Sustainability is increasingly influencing tech adoption in larger cities, especially in urban planning and construction. And it’s not just the desire to contribute to a more sustainable future — many jurisdictions are driving toward sustainability because of financial incentives.  

“Historically, a lot of thinking has been ‘just build it and if we need to, we’ll tear it down and rebuild.’ But you have all the disposal costs of everything that’s torn down, the waste that's included with all that, not to mention environmental concerns,” said Tamashasky. More times than not, this process is more costly than continual investment and maintenance of existing infrastructure that’s been constructed with sustainable materials. 

Jurisdictions are taking a more sustainable approach to planning and site design with tools that allow them to account for building materials, timeline, and other specifics to calculate emissions.  

Breaking Down Data Silos 

For local agencies, the persistent challenge of data silos remains a key focus. "Local government organizations often have siloed business processes, budgets, data, and communications," said Tamashasky. “This puts enormous strain on collaboration and the amount of time it takes to accomplish projects.”  

Local agencies are increasingly seeking out software solutions that enhance workflow management, increase visibility, and streamline communications. By providing multi-user solutions that enable departments working together in real time, users are saved from redundant activities and have visibility into the feedback and concerns of other departments. 

Local governments continue to push forward with their digital transformation journeys. While challenges remain, particularly in implementation and change management, the potential benefits in efficiency, cost savings, and improved citizen services make these tech trends worth watching and adopting. As local governments continue to evolve, embracing these technologies will be key to meeting the growing expectations of their communities.