Governance Structures for Data and AI in the Public Sector

This report presents an impact paper on governance structures for data and artificial intelligence (AI) in the public sector, developed by PwC. It outlines the necessity for governments to integrate AI into their operations to enhance efficiency, counteract workforce shortages, and improve service accessibility. The report identifies key challenges in current AI implementations, including low data maturity, strict privacy laws, and ineffective governance. It emphasizes the importance of structured data governance and the need for public sector organizations to move beyond isolated AI projects to achieve scalable solutions. The document details a data governance maturity model, categorizing organizations into decentralized, centralized, and federated structures. It also highlights findings from a survey conducted across 19 countries, assessing the maturity of data and AI capabilities within public administrations. The report concludes with recommendations for enhancing governance, systems, and people to facilitate effective AI integration in public services.