Doug Keefe

Public Spark

Public Spark shares ideas and inspiration for public servants ready to embrace technology and innovation. Each episode, we dive into making sense of how public sector can modernize services and better serve citizens. From automation to AI, open data to chatbots, our hosts share breakdowns on big subjects, real-world stories and lessons learned from driving digital change in the public sector. We cover the challenges, opportunities, and best practices for transforming government through technology. Whether you're an IT leader, policy advisor, or just curious about the future of digital governme...

Author

Doug Keefe

Category

Government

Podcast website

podhostapp.com

Latest episode

Aug 13, 2025

Where to listen?

Podcasts in the app Replaio Radio Coming soon

Podcasts are coming to the app soon. Install now and be the first to see a whole new take on podcasts

Get it on Google Play Install for free Android 5M+ downloads · 4.8 rating iOS soon

Episodes

High-level summary of the AI Act 19.03.2025

Source: https://artificialintelligenceact.eu/high-level-summary/ This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the EU AI Act, breaking down its risk-based approach to AI regulation. We explore the four risk categories: unacceptable risk (prohibited systems like social scoring), high-risk AI (requiring strict compliance), limited risk (basic transparency requirements), and minimal risk (unregul...

Shape Up: Stop Running in Circles and Ship Work that Matters 18.03.2025

Source: https://basecamp.com/shapeup In this episode, we explore Ryan Singer's methodology for product development at Basecamp. Shape Up offers a refreshing alternative to traditional agile practices, focusing on six-week cycles, clearly shaped work, and autonomous team responsibility. The book outlines a three-part process: Shaping (defining project boundaries and solutions before committing reso...

Identifying Personal Identifiable Information (PII) in Unstructured Data with Microsoft Presidio 17.03.2025

Source: https://www.statcan.gc.ca/en/data-science/network/identifying-personal-identifiable-information In this episode, we explore how organizations can protect sensitive personal data using Microsoft Presidio, a powerful open-source tool for PII detection and anonymization. Saptarshi Dutta Gupta from Statistics Canada explains the importance of safeguarding personally identifiable information in...

The GovLab Blog: Exploring Digital Governance 13.03.2025

Source: https://blog.thegovlab.org/product-model-development-with-the-technology-modernization-fund This episode dives into the digital presence of The GovLab, focusing on their blog platform. We examine how this organization leverages modern web technologies and analytics tools to share governance innovations and research. The site utilizes Google Analytics, Bootstrap, and various font libraries...

The Global Landscape of Data Governance 12.03.2025

Source: https://www.cigionline.org/articles/the-global-landscape-of-data-governance/ In this episode, we explore the complex landscape of data governance across the globe, drawing insights from the Global Data Barometer. From examining the correlation between governance frameworks and data availability to addressing challenges like privacy concerns, digital divides, and emerging technologies, we u...

AI Strategy for the Federal Public Service 2025-2027: Overview 11.03.2025

Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/government/system/digital-government/digital-government-innovations/responsible-use-ai/gc-ai-strategy-overview.html This episode explores Canada's vision for responsibly adopting artificial intelligence across the federal public service. We examine why the government needs an AI strategy, the principles guiding its implementation, and the scope of AI technologies c...

What Fails and When? A Process View of Innovation Failure 10.03.2025

Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0166497224000452?via%3Dihub Innovation failures come in different forms, but how do we make sense of them? This episode explores a process-oriented framework for understanding innovation failure. We discuss how task failures and outcome failures vary across different phases of the innovation journey, and present a typology of four distinct...

What Happened When Australia Encouraged Public Servants to Use Generative AI 07.03.2025

Source: https://apolitical.co/solution-articles/en/what-happened-when-australia-encouraged-public-servants-to-use-generative-ai Chris Fechner discusses Australia's pioneering approach to AI adoption in government. This episode explores the policies, outcomes, and lessons learned when Australian public servants were actively encouraged to incorporate generative AI tools into their work. Learn about...

Making Sense of the Impact of Generative AI on Critical Thinking 06.03.2025

Source: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2025/01/lee_2025_ai_critical_thinking_survey.pdf The rise of Generative AI (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT is changing how knowledge workers think and work. But are these changes good or bad? A new study explores the impact of GenAI on critical thinking skills. Join us as we break down the findings of this research and discuss: What is criti...

AI Playbook for the UK Government: Navigating AI in the Public Sector 05.03.2025

Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ai-playbook-for-the-uk-government This episode explores the UK Government's AI Playbook, a comprehensive guide for civil servants and government organizations on using artificial intelligence safely, effectively, and securely. We'll discuss the 10 core principles outlined in the playbook, examine what AI is - including its capabilities, limitation...

What We Heard: Results from the AI Trust Study on Canada.ca 04.03.2025

Source: https://digital.canada.ca/2025/02/18/what-we-heard-results-from-the-ai-trust-study-on-canada.ca/ The Digital Transformation Office at CDS conducted an extensive AI Trust study to understand how Canadians feel about artificial intelligence on government websites. With over 1,500 Canadian participants from every province and territory, the study revealed key insights: people are more skeptic...

AI Adoption: The Complete Roadmap for Startups and Enterprises 03.03.2025

Source: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/cloud-adoption-framework/scenarios/ai/ Navigate the comprehensive journey of AI adoption with this detailed guide from Microsoft's Cloud Adoption Framework. Learn the structured process for implementing AI in your organization, covering everything from developing an AI strategy and planning to ensuring your environment is AI-ready and properly govern...

Mastering Information Management: A Guide for Canadian Public Servants 28.02.2025

Source: https://www.tbs-sct.canada.ca/pol/doc-eng.aspx?id=16557&section=html In this episode, we explore the fundamentals of information management for Government of Canada employees. Learn how to effectively manage information throughout its life cycle—from creation to proper disposal—while ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service. We'll cover best practices for org...

Understanding the Duty to Consult 26.02.2025

Source: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1331832510888/1609421255810 In this episode, we delve into the Government of Canada's duty to consult Indigenous groups—a constitutional obligation rooted in the Honour of the Crown and section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. This duty requires federal engagement with Indigenous communities when proposed actions might affect their established or potent...

Lifting the Veil: Canada's Commitment to Trust and Transparency 25.02.2025

Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/government/system/government-wide-reporting-spending-operations/trust-transparency/government-canada-trust-and-transparency-strategy.html Join us as we delve into Canada's groundbreaking Trust and Transparency Strategy, a bold initiative designed to foster greater openness, accountability, and public trust in government operations. Explore the key pillars of this a...

Navigating the Future of AI in Government: Canada's Microsoft Copilot Policy 24.02.2025

Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/government/system/digital-government/policies-standards/microsoft-copilot-for-work-policy-implementation-notice.html In this episode, we delve into Canada's groundbreaking policy on the use of Microsoft Copilot for government work. Explore the challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations surrounding the responsible integration of AI technologies in the pub...

Revolutionizing the State: Pat McFadden's Ambitious Plan to Inject Start-Up Agility 23.02.2025

In a bold move, Pat McFadden, the UK's Minister for Implementation, has unveiled an audacious strategy to transform the government's operations by adopting a start-up mindset. Determined to streamline bureaucracy and enhance efficiency, McFadden is deploying specialized reform teams across the country. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of this innovative approach, exploring its potential im...

Uncovering Canada's Indigenous Information Access: Perspectives and Pathways 23.02.2025

Join us as we delve into the Canadian government's efforts to modernize access to information and protect Indigenous knowledge and data sovereignty. Explore the complexities, challenges, and opportunities in this thought-provoking episode that sheds light on the unique considerations for Indigenous communities. Gain insights from experts and stakeholders shaping this crucial dialogue.

Diving into A Radical How For Canada 22.02.2025

Source: https://public.digital/where-we-work/canada/a-radical-how-for-canada How Canada is Leading Digital Government Transformation | Public Digital's Strategy Explained Join us for an insightful discussion on Canada's groundbreaking approach to digital government transformation. We explore how Canada is revolutionizing public service delivery through digital solutions, agile methodologies, and u...

Making sense of AI's Impact on the UK Labour Market: Jobs, Wages & Transformative Change 20.02.2025

Source: https://www.smf.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/In-the-blink-of-an-AI-Nov-2024.pdf Title: AI's Impact on UK Jobs: What You Need to Know | Future of Work Discussion Description: Join us for an insightful conversation about artificial intelligence and its impact on the UK workforce. We dive deep into the Social Market Foundation's latest research on AI adoption, discussing which jobs are mo...

Making sense of How Complex Systems Fail: 18 Key Observations About Failure in Critical Systems 17.02.2025

Source: https://how.complexsystems.fail/ Why Complex Systems Fail: A Deep Dive into System Safety & Engineering | Expert Discussion Join us as we explore Richard Cook's influential work on how complex systems fail, breaking down the fundamental principles that every engineer, manager, and safety professional needs to understand. In this episode, we discuss how modern technological systems cope wit...

Breaking the Cascade of Rigidity: How AI Unlocks Organizational Agility 14.02.2025

Explore how AI can help organizations overcome the 'cascade of rigidity' and regain their agility. Discover practical strategies for leveraging AI to foster innovation, adapt to change, and stay ahead of the competition in an ever-evolving business landscape. Join us as we dive into real-world examples and expert insights on embracing AI for organizational flexibility and long-term success.

Navigating the Nine Fault Lines: A Guide to Public Sector Transformation 14.02.2025

Explore the nine critical fault lines reshaping the public sector landscape. From digital disruption to rising citizen expectations, this eye-opening episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities facing governments today. Gain insights to help your organization adapt and thrive in the face of seismic shifts.

Unleashing Generative AI: The Enterprise Revolution of 2024 14.02.2025

As we enter 2024, generative AI is set to disrupt the enterprise landscape. This podcast delves into the cutting-edge advancements and real-world applications that are transforming industries. Discover how leading companies are harnessing the power of generative AI to drive innovation, streamline operations, and unlock new realms of productivity and creativity.

Making Sense of Digital Innovation in Government: Key Steps for Public Sector Success 14.02.2025

Source: https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/enabling-digital-innovation-in-government_a51eb9b2-en.html Title: Making Government Digital Innovation Work: A Chat About OECD's Latest Insights Description: Join us for an engaging discussion on how governments can embrace digital innovation in 2024 and beyond. We break down the OECD's comprehensive report on digital transformation in the public sector...

Listen to the Public Spark podcast in Replaio

Radio and podcasts in one app - free, with no sign-up. Install today and do not miss the launch

Get it on Google Play

Replaio is not a podcast publisher; show names, artwork and audio belong to their authors and are distributed through public RSS feeds.