Singapore's Digital Services Awards (DSA) 2023 marked a significant change this year, expanding its scope to include government entities, private organisations, and citizens. This shift acknowledges the vital contributions these groups make to enhancing digital services.
Inclusive recognition at the DSA
On November 24 2023, the Devan Nair Institute for Employment and Employability hosted the third edition of the DSA, attracting 350 in-person attendees and another 500 virtually. Dr Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Communications and Information and Minister-in-Charge of GovTech was the event's Guest-of-Honour, presenting awards across eight categories to 33 winners.
Spotlight on private sector innovation
The introduction of two new categories, “Best Usability (Industry)” and “Most Popular Informational Website (Industry),” highlights the role of the private sector in improving digital services. These awards focus on user-friendliness, practicality, and overall user satisfaction. Nearly 50 nominations from diverse sectors, including non-profits and media outlets, were considered, with the top 10 vying for the “Most Popular Informational Website (Industry)” award, determined by live voting at the ceremony.
Comprehensive and inclusive evaluation process
The DSA's rigorous four-month evaluation process ensures a fair and comprehensive assessment. Utilising the Whole-of-Government Application Analytics (WOGAA) tool, entries were scrutinised technically. Additionally, a panel comprising experts from leading tech firms and 200 citizens, including those with disabilities, played a crucial role in selecting winners for the “Best Usability” categories.
Recognising citizen contributions
A new category, “Outstanding Citizen Contributor,” was introduced to celebrate the efforts of citizens in enhancing government digital services. Nine individuals, chosen from open nominations and tech communities like Tech Kaki and CrowdTaskSG, received this honour. Their contributions underscore the event's theme, “Empathy at the Heart of Tech,” emphasising user-centric digital service development.
Aiming for higher digital standards
Mr Goh Wei Boon, Chief Executive of GovTech, emphasised the importance of collaboration, innovation, and excellence in digital service delivery. The expanded award categories aim to spur greater involvement from the private sector and citizens, fostering an environment of continuous improvement in Singapore's digital landscape.
As digital technology becomes increasingly integral to our daily lives, the DSA's inclusive approach to recognising diverse contributors reflects Singapore's commitment to excellence and innovation in digital services.
