Listeners, as government agencies worldwide face intensifying fiscal pressures and rising citizen expectations, the conversation around public sector efficiency is more urgent than ever. In 2025, a key development on this front is the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, which has been tasked with reimagining how government operates to deliver streamlined, outcome-driven services. But the question on many minds is: Are we DOGE-ing it wrong? The push for greater government efficiency is not new, but the strategies are evolving rapidly. Governments are moving away from piecemeal budget tweaks and towards transformational approaches. The focus is now on leveraging digital tools, optimizing organizational structures, and committing to long-term, sustainable cost reductions. This shift means not just cutting costs for the short term, but structurally redesigning workflows and reducing persistent issues like fraud and misuse of funds. Artificial intelligence is emerging as a powerful ally in this transformation, but effective adoption requires more than just technology. Agencies must also invest in the training, platforms, and partnerships needed to scale AI solutions and integrate them into day-to-day service delivery[2]. Recent policy changes, such as the federal workforce reduction and deregulation initiatives seen in 2025, mirror broader trends towards streamlining processes and simplifying citizen interactions with the government. The creation of DOGE marks a significant acknowledgment that efficiency itself is a core governmental function, not just an administrative afterthought[5]. However, the challenge lies in execution. The promise of DOGE will only be fulfilled if innovation is paired with practical, systemic change. That means not just adopting the latest tech buzzwords but embedding efficiency into the DNA of public service—making every process more intuitive, accessible, and accountable for citizens[1][4]. As governments worldwide continue to experiment and adapt, all eyes are on whether DOGE can deliver on its bold promise, or if, amid the hype, we risk DOGE-ing it wrong. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
