Report identifies top emerging technologies for government
A recent report from analyst firm Forrester has identified 11 technologies “that will shape the next decade of government transformation”.
Forrester highlighted the key technologies that will offer benefits over the short, medium and long term, including synthetic data, generative AI and quantum computing.
“Critical to the public sector is the ability to deliver on time, on budget and on mission. Having the tools on hand to support your service delivery capabilities is critical but knowing when and where to invest is essential in securing both quick wins and long-term strategic gains,” said Sam Higgins, VP, principal analyst at Forrester.
“Regulatory constraints, complex systems, conflicting interests and shifting mission priorities mean that, despite enthusiasm and an appetite for new technologies, the public sector is often more constrained than its private-sector counterparts. As such, the technologies that will reap the most benefits are different than for other industries.”
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Ready to deploy: Short-term gains
The short-term technologies highlighted are synthetic data generation, decentralised digital identity, TuringBots and generative AI for language.
“With the ability to integrate with existing systems, leverage existing capabilities and use current datasets, technologies in this category can be implemented immediately to significant effect,” said Higgins.
Synthetic data is artificially created data that mirrors the statistical properties and patterns of real-world data and is used to support AI models and secure data analysis.
Decentralised digital identity lets individuals control and share their personal information securely without relying on a central authority. “As services and citizens become more connected, decentralised digital identity benefits governments by streamlining operations, programmes and data,” the report said.
TuringBots are AI-powered software development assistants and can boost productivity and innovation, “providing significant efficiency gains in the development of both new software and the legacy software that lingers in public sector IT”, according to Forrester.
Generative AI for language uses advanced models to understand and create text for tasks like writing, summarising, translating and answering questions.
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Coming soon: Medium-term tools
For the medium term, Forrester tips explainable AI, zero-party data platforms, quantum security, autonomous mobility and AI agents.
This category covers technologies that are “rapidly evolving and can provide extensive benefits” over the next two to five years.
“Explainable AI will increase the transparency of and trust in AI use and can aid regulatory compliance,” the report said. “Zero-party data platforms allow governments to manage data volunteered by customers, improving service accuracy or informing policy without compromising privacy.”
It added that quantum security is crucial “as quantum computers’ potential to break cryptographic algorithms rises” and noted the “disruptive potential” of autonomous mobility and the ability of AI agents to automate repetitive tasks and free up workers to take on more complex responsibilities.
“Quantum security may still be several years away from mainstream use, but leaders must be prepared to adopt facets of it, such as post-quantum public key algorithms, to improve the security of information exchange and secure increased cryptographic agility in the future,” said Higgins.
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Long-term technologies to look out for
The long-term technologies to watch are pinpointed as quantum computing platforms and zero trust edge. The latter refers to security solutions that verify users and devices before giving access, even at the edge of a network.
This category covers “high risk, high reward” tools that governments are urged to monitor but approach with caution.
“Forward-looking agencies will begin to assess whether these advanced technologies have a place in their roadmaps and whether they will be worth the investment,” Higgins said.
“Delivering tangible value in five or more years, technologies such as zero trust edge, which has the possibility to reduce costs and enhance protection, can’t be neglected. They are coming – whether you’re prepared or not.”
About Sarah Wray
Sarah has over 15 years’ experience as a journalist with a specialism in the public sector and topics such as digitalisation and climate action. Sarah was formerly the editor of Cities Today and Smart Cities World, as well as a specialist video-based publication in the aerospace sector. She has also written for publications including Smart Cities Dive, Mobile Europe, Mobile World Live and Computer Weekly.
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