Proof of concepts with governments accelerate scalable transparency, accountability, and digital transformation solutions

Every day, governments collect massive amounts of data. When made available for advanced analysis, this data can yield valuable insights that inspire innovative ways to proactively confront some of society’s most significant challenges. Sometimes, the insights illuminate issues that might otherwise have gone undetected via manual reviews. Most importantly, the data and insights increase transparency, enable effective governance, and trigger a higher level of accountability. 

Microsoft ACTS mobilizes the power of data to enable governments to bend the curve of corruption. We use modern technology and techniques like cloud computing, open data, and advanced analytics to digitally transform governance. The automated insights provided through advanced dashboards and reports frees employees from manual and laborious monitoring and audits. These more effective and efficient processes enable government agencies to focus their attention on key indicators of potential corruption.  

We work with government leaders and partners to demonstrate how their current data can be analyzed and presented in ways that produce new insights and improve agency transparency and operations. These early warning systems use modern technology like relationship mapping, pattern recognition, and data visualization tools that shine a light on potential risks. Customized algorithms raise alerts or "red flags" for potentially suspicious activities that aren’t evident through manual monitoring efforts. 

Opening doors for greater visibility and transparency

Sometimes, one project opens the door for new, innovative solutions, like the development of the procurement red flags dashboard. That “proof of concept” or demonstration brought into focus another government challenge: competitive bidding on government contracts. Projects like road repair and school construction are complicated and expensive anywhere. Monitoring the development of these contracts with fair market pricing can be extremely difficult.  Government leaders require the capability to compare current pricing and establish contracts based on fair market value for goods and services. 

In response, we developed and customized a pricing catalog. Built on Microsoft Azure, the solution uses advanced technologies to search vast amounts of data for suspicious transactions. For example, a contractor tries to submit multiple small bids for the same project to avoid procurement thresholds. Through automated price monitoring, the government procurement agency receives notification of irregularities, helping establish and regulate fair bidding. This type of transparency helps prevent leakage of public resources. Like the dashboard, the pricing catalog lays the foundation for accountability by providing reference ranges for products and services. 

You can learn more about the dashboard and pricing catalog in the video above.

The future is bright 

Microsoft ACTS assists governments with the goal of improving people’s lives. Our proofs of concept become solutions that help unlock opportunities, which empower governments to address their unique data challenges. Our work to foster greater transparency and accountability through digital transformation is just beginning. Through our continued engagement and delivery of innovative solutions, we will partner to create increased efficiency and effectiveness, leading to more equitable systems that better serve citizens.