DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF WORKFLOWS WITHIN THE LEADER INTERVENTION AT THE MANAGING AUTHORITY LEVEL
About this good practice
MADR is funding, through the LEADER intervention, local development strategies to promote sustainable, integrated growth in specific areas. These strategies help communities develop harmoniously by addressing local needs, leveraging resources and balancing economic, social, and environmental goals.
For a more efficient process of financing these local development strategies the LEADER intervention has been digitized using the SMART pdf format, resulting in the following improvements:
- Less manual processing: applying for funding, tracking projects and meeting reporting requirements is less time-consuming and resource-intensive. Before, document submissions, approvals and reporting were done manually leading to inefficiencies, delays and errors, especially with large volumes of paperwork.
- Improved transparency and accountability: the SMART pdf ensures better monitoring & accountability. The traditional approach lacked real-time tracking, delaying detection of issues and misuse of funds.
- Enhanced communication: SMART pdf improves coordination and goal alignment among multiple stakeholders, whereas before, the lack of centralized processes caused fragmented communication.
The old system hindered real-time monitoring, delaying decisions and project improvements due to outdated data. Lacking up-to-date data, MADR struggled to adjust projects on time.
Main Stakeholders and beneficiaries: Local Action Groups, local communities, small businesses and farmers
Resources needed
The IT specialists from MADR provided the necessary human resources to run the practice. They developed and implemented the digitization functionality to ensure full operational capacity. This practice was developed internally and did not require any additional financial resources.
Evidence of success
Between 15.12. 2023 and 22.01.2024, the submission session of Local Development Strategies was held within DR-36 LEADER - Local development placed under the responsibility of the community, which resulted in 246 strategies with a 500 mil. euro public value being submitted.
The entire process of submitting the Local Development Strategies was digitized and carried out through a dedicated IT platform, which reduced the administrative burden and made it easier for beneficiaries to access funding.
Potential for learning or transfer
This practice can serve as a strong solution for other regions for several reasons:
- Cost Efficiency: By utilizing internal IT resources, public institutions can digitize processes without additional financial burdens, a key factor for regions with limited budgets.
- Scalability and Adaptability: The flexible approach can be tailored to other regions' specific needs, allowing adjustments for changing conditions, making it a scalable model.
- Self-Reliance: It fosters self-reliance by investing in internal capabilities, creating long-term sustainability and reducing dependence on external contractors.
- Improved Digital Infrastructure: This model promotes local digital infrastructure, offering a roadmap for efficient digital transformation with minimal external costs.
It provides a valuable example for regions seeking cost-effective public service enhancements.
Further information
Good practice owner
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