In this episode of the Government Technology Insider podcast Lucas Hunsicker hosts a dynamic conversation with Granicus’s Charlotte Lee, Director of Growth Strategy, and Luke Norris, Vice President of Platform Strategy and Digital Transformation, to explore the impact of a digital-first approach to government.

For decades, governments have relied heavily on paper-based systems for tasks ranging from record-keeping to correspondence. This dependence adds unnecessary costs—estimated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reported at nearly $40 billion annually for the federal government—while hindering efficiency and transparency. In the push for digital transformation across the government, digital-first strategies are a winning solution.

Lee and Norris share real-world examples of how shifting to digital processes not only enhances key government operations but also aligns with the way society functions today. People expect the same level of convenience from government services as they do from food delivery services or online interactions—immediate, seamless, and accessible.

At the same time, this shift eliminates inefficiencies by digitizing records, automating workflows, and integrating cloud-based systems, streamlining operations and reducing waste while saving money. A digital-first approach also strengthens transparency and accountability by enabling real-time data collection, improving spending oversight, and reducing the risk of fraud.

Of course, transitioning to a digital-first government isn’t without challenges. Investing in the right technology, training staff, and fostering a culture of digital adoption all require time and effort. However, the long-term benefits—including cost savings, improved service delivery, and user satisfaction—make the shift well worth it.