Digitalization Index for Sweden’s municipalities and regions
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | RISE Research Institutes of Sweden AB - Rise Acreo, Kista |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 700 000 |
| Project duration | May 2019 - September 2020 |
| Status | Completed |
| End-of-project report | 2019-02564_Höganäs.pdf (pdf, 318 kB) |
Important results from the project
The aim of this feasibility study was to define a methodology (an “index”) that measures and analyzes how far different parts of Sweden (at local and regional level) have come in their digitalisation journey. The project developed a solid methodology, an index prototype and a picture of the current situation regarding existence and lack of data. We describe the project´s results in a report, which also summarizes the project´s lessons learned in a few short recommendations for relevant stakeholders, as well as a list of what remains to be done to achieve a complete digitalization index.
Expected long term effects
The project developed a methodology to define a digitalization index for Swedish municipalities and regions. We have evaluated the feasibility of the index and note that today there are major shortcomings in availability, ownership structure, and in some cases quality of data. On the other hand, coordination and a clearer definition of responsibility could lead to a dramatic improvement in the situation and increase the feasibility of the index, which today is limited to certain areas and aspects.
Approach and implementation
We defined nine areas of digitization, and the most relevant aspects within six of them. The choice of these aspects was made by following the digitalization effect chain backwards from the desired socio-economic benefit to the necessary efforts and conditions. We built a methodology for defining and evaluating indicators for each aspect, and examined data sources for each indicator. During the work, we have had a broad dialogue with relevant stakeholders, potenital users and experts, as well as data owners.