The Canton of Ticino takes a decisive step towards digitalization of public administration. With the presentation of two government messages, the Council of State has officially launched the first phase of implementation of the Digital Transformation Strategy. The main objective? Making public services more accessible and efficient thanks to new technologies, without however replacing traditional ways of using them. At the same time, the government has requested an infrastructure upgrade to support the increase in IT needs, with a total investment of 30,4 million francs, now being examined by Parliament.

A strategic plan for the Canton's digital future

Digitalization is a priority for the Council of State, which had already identified some objectives in this direction in the 2019-2023 Legislative Program. To provide a concrete acceleration, in 2022 a Delegate for Digital Transformation was appointed, charged with coordinating the complex innovation process. The work carried out led to the development of the Digital Transformation Strategy, approved on 24 February 2024, which outlines a clear vision and defines the stages of implementation.

The plan aims to improve the quality of life of citizens and to strengthen the attractiveness of Ticino for new generations and businesses. The digitalization of public services will simplify many procedures, reduce waiting times and increase administrative transparency.

Key projects of the first phase

The Government Message presented includes several strategic initiatives. Among these, a central role is played by the new Digital Administration Act, which will provide the legal basis for the digital transition and which is already in force in about twenty other Swiss cantons.

On the operational level, four main projects have been identified:

  • Digital service desk: an online platform to allow citizens and businesses to quickly access administrative services without having to physically go to the cantonal offices.
  • Electronic Practice Management (GEVER): a system for the digital management of public documents, which will automate internal processes to improve efficiency.
  • Open Government Data: an initiative to make information produced by public administration accessible, promoting transparency and citizen participation.
  • Digital Skills Training: A program to continuously update the digital skills of administrative staff.

The implementation of this first phase is planned over a period of four years (2025-2028) and requires an investment of 14,2 million francs, in addition to 2,7 million for current management.

A new framework for digital transformation

To ensure the coordination and effectiveness of the digital transition, the Government proposes the establishment of a Digital Administration Service, which will be included in the State Chancellery. This new body will collaborate with the Departments and the Information Systems Center (CSI) of the Department of Finance and Economy (DFE) to ensure a transversal approach to digitalization.

Strengthening IT infrastructure

In addition to the digital transformation of services, the Council of State has presented a second Government Message for the upgrade of technical infrastructures, with a requested investment of 16,2 million francs and an annual current management credit of 3,3 million francs. The growing demand for IT solutions and the need to strengthen cyber security have made this adjustment indispensable.

The plan also includes the construction of a second redundant server room, managed by CSI, to ensure greater reliability and protection against environmental and cyber risks.

A cross-cutting commitment for the digital future

Ticino's digitalization journey is not limited to public administration. The Government has reiterated that the transformation will involve numerous areas, including justice, healthcare, education, geomatics, political rights, taxation and personnel management.

With this dual intervention, the Council of State confirms its willingness to face the digital challenge with determination, transforming it into an opportunity for growth and development for the entire Canton. The project now goes to Parliament, called upon to evaluate the investment and give the green light to a revolution that promises to make Ticino more modern, efficient and innovative.