Connecting researchers and practitioners can create meaningful impact as it ensures that strategic decisions are based on the most up-to-date research. It also ensures that the practitioners are taking into account the most recent evidence when making policy or strategic decisions. One major question which local leaders are facing is how they can use digital tools to improve municipal service delivery. This question was brought to ICLD by representatives from Pemba Town Council in Zambia, who were eager to digitalize the operations of their local government and to do so within the structure of the ICLD programme on Public Financial Management and Local Economic Development.
As a response to Pemba’s question, ICLD connected the team to a group of four researchers from different backgrounds but with a common interest in digitalization and local democracy. The researchers had already met and bonded over their research interests at ICLD’s bi-annual Local Democracy Academy, which made for succesful collaboration.
After facilitating fruitful discussions between Pemba and the research team, ICLD decided to finance a research project that connected the researchers with the practitioners to help solve how the local government could improve service delivery to its citizens through the use of digital tools. Two of the researchers travelled to Pemba to conduct interviews, engage with the community and the local government, and develop a digital strategy that acts as a roadmap for Pemba’s digital transformation.
The project's implementation is ongoing and already showing promising benefits. One significant change is the introduction of an online application system, which enhances communication, convenience, and efficiency. This system will streamline the process of accessing council services, saving time and resources for community members, especially those in remote areas. Furthermore, it will improve information accessibility and the council's overall operational efficiency.
Connecting research and practice posed challenges due to limited communication, but researchers successfully bridged the gap using appropriate methodologies. To further promote the integration of research and practice, researchers can publish a practical guide. This guide would assist other local authorities in developing their own digital strategies, using the project's methodology as a reference. By sharing their insights and lessons learned, researchers can support the replication of successful approaches in other contexts, fostering digital transformation and improved service delivery in various communities. To learn more about this initiative click here.