General details
EDIHs involved
Challenges
The Valli del Canavese GAL (local action group) is a public-private body that promotes projects for the development and valorisation of the territory. The GAL elaborates, together with the local actors, the Local Development Plan (PSL) in which an integrated development strategy is defined and implemented through the publication of tenders in favor of businesses and local administrations, support to financing and participation in projects that can bring value and resources to the area.
Digital transition, especially for smaller PSOs, is perceived as an obstacle more than an opportunity. Often, due to the complex structure of their activities and their front-line position between Public Administration, citizens and businesses, small municipalities have to deal with staff reduced to a minimum, with the same burdensome tasks as large entities. Already facing difficulties for this reason, as a result, these municipalities frequently deprioritise digital transformation, viewing it as an additional challenge rather than a strategic priority.
Solutions
A possible solution to overcome this challenge is the activation of collaboration paths capable of pooling resources and skills. By establishing cooperative networks, smaller PSOs can pool their assets, expertise, and technologies, facilitating a smoother, more efficient transition to digital operations.
The Valli del Canavese GAL has proactively engaged with its associated municipalities by initiating networking and training activities. These efforts are facilitated by EXPAND EDIH, in collaboration with the Piemonte2030 initiative of the Piedmont Region.
Serving as a promoter, Valli del Canavese GAL engaged with municipalities aware of their digitalisation challenges, facilitating discussions to pinpoint key areas for improvement. This collaborative approach helped identify the main topics requiring reinforcement to enhance their digital transformation.
Based on the identified needs from these assessments, four comprehensive workshops were organised at the GAL headquarters, focusing on:
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Digital transformation
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Cybersecurity
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Accessibility and communication
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Open Data
Through these workshops, the Valli del Canavese GAL is not only addressing immediate digital needs but also laying the groundwork for a more connected and technologically proficient future. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, the GAL is empowering municipalities to harness the full potential of digital tools and strategies, ultimately enhancing public services and improving the quality of life for residents across the region.
Results and Benefits
Over 20 small municipalities, each with a population ranging from 300 to 3000 citizens, actively participated in the implementation of these initiatives.
For each municipality involved, a comprehensive document was created, providing a detailed analysis of the current digital maturity of the Public Sector Organization (PSO). These documents outlined customised digital transition roadmaps and offered strategic recommendations, highlighting key considerations to guide future progress.
The beneficiaries expressed high appreciation for the themes related to digitalisation and networking strategies, as well as the more technological topics. They have gained a greater awareness of the opportunities linked to the digitalisation of services and the importance of data sharing, with a heightened focus on cybersecurity.
Participants also praised the workshops for offering a platform to discuss common challenges. These sessions not only facilitated the exchange of knowledge and best practices but also empowered participants to disseminate this information and foster awareness among their colleagues, thereby amplifying the impact of the initiatives.
Perceived social/economic impact
Implementing best practices for the digital transformation of small cities can lead to substantial social and economic benefits, driving sustainable growth and improving residents' quality of life. The key anticipated impacts include:
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Narrowing the digital divide: Expanding digital access helps bridge the gap between digitally connected and underserved communities, fostering inclusivity.
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Improved access to public services and information: Digital transformation enables easier, faster access to public administration services, empowering citizens and enhancing transparency.
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Increased cybersecurity awareness: Enhanced focus on cybersecurity equips residents with the knowledge to recognize risks and adopt protective measures, fostering a safer digital environment for all.
Measurable data
The success of the digital transformation initiatives in the Valli del Canavese region is reflected in the active participation and engagement of numerous small municipalities. The following data highlights the scope of involvement and the measurable outcomes achieved:
Participation and Scope
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Over 20 small municipalities participated in the initiatives.
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These municipalities have populations ranging from 300 to 3,000 citizens.
DMA score and results - Stage 0
Overall DMA average score 37%.
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Overall Digital Strategy and Investments average score 44%
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Overall Digital Readiness average score 44%
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Overall Human-Centric Digitalisation average score 37%
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Overall Data Management and Security average score 37%
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Overall Interoperability average score 20%
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Overall Green Digitalisation average score 42%
Local governments have strategically leveraged the opportunities provided by the Next Generation EU – PNRR funds, accelerating the digitisation of numerous services.
However, significant room for improvement remains, particularly in enhancing interoperability and adopting more innovative technologies.
Despite the availability of extensive training resources—many of them free—staff in small administrations, often understaffed and overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, struggle to take full advantage of these opportunities.
Additionally, the region places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, reflecting a deep commitment to green initiatives.
Lessons learned
Do’s:
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Foster Direct Engagement with Local Communities: Encouraging direct contact with the territory significantly boosted participation. The meetings served as valuable forums for information exchange and dialogue, helping small municipalities to better understand the digital transition they are facing. This direct engagement also heightened their awareness of the gaps they need to address.
Don’ts:
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Avoid Isolated Training Efforts: Conducting training interventions without the direct involvement of the territories, both in the creation and implementation of the digital transition path, often fails to achieve the desired results. Small municipalities, dealing with the complexities of day-to-day management, are less likely to engage effectively without this hands-on, collaborative approach.
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