EP#35: The Future of Government – Talking Data and Digital – with Craig Thomler

Craig has 25 years’ experience in the digital industry and is passionate about boosting organisational performance through the use of digital strategies and tools. Craig has previously managed and created start-up companies, and served in a variety of senior roles in both government and private sectors.

Throughout his professional career, Craig has led national digital projects, designed innovative products, hosted stakeholder engagement initiatives, and coordinated the development of hundreds of websites. He has also trained thousands globally on how to maximise their social media engagement.

Craig’s current role with Accenture focuses on supporting clients to respond, manage and create value from digital disruptions. His previous work as an advocate for Digital Government (Gov 2.0) has given him an appreciation for work relating to government and health industries.

Discussed in this episode:

  • Craig’s background and passion for digital
  • The role of data in modern communications
  • Room for improvement regarding government data use
  • The different roles of data: comparing public and private sectors
  • Managing the issue of citizen privacy
  • Viewing privacy and data as a ‘transaction’
  • Craig’s thoughts on introducing government incentives for data sharing
  • What the government will look like in 5 years’ time
  • The shift towards agile and multifunctional teams
  • Craig’s take on the skills government communicators should be learning now
  • The future of digital and the implications for businesses