Granicus launches Engagement Cloud to boost public sector trust
The Engagement Cloud platform combines personalised communication tools, real-time data insights, accessible feedback mechanisms, and strategic support designed to enhance relationships between governments and their communities. The solution aims to assist public sector organisations in streamlining operations, delivering secure services, and building community trust.
Features and capabilities
Engagement Cloud provides a unified environment for running communication campaigns across multiple channels, such as email, web, and social media. The platform includes built-in deliverability and scheduling tools, supports targeting capabilities, and ensures that communications comply with accessibility and data sovereignty standards in line with local requirements. Engagement Cloud conforms to WCAG 2.2 AA standards and is designed to meet Australian data handling obligations.
The platform enables data collection and analysis for improved resident engagement. By unifying various data points, it allows agencies to understand residents' interactions and preferences, facilitating consistent, personalised engagement across all touchpoints.
Granicus Experience Services, included with every Engagement Cloud subscription, provides public sector expertise to assist with onboarding, strategic planning, user journey design, and ongoing training for agency staff. This support is intended to enable organisations to improve their digital maturity without the need for additional hiring.
Quotes from leadership "Engagement Cloud is a powerful enabler for Australian government agencies striving to meet the ambitions of the national digital strategy. By fostering genuine engagement, streamlining operations, and providing actionable insights, it helps public sector organisations deliver simple, secure, and connected services that build trust and empower communities" said Francois Rizk, Director of Growth, ANZ.
Rizk also highlighted the pressures faced by local governments in the region, noting the importance of reliable support and adaptable digital solutions. "Local governments are under growing pressure to deliver better digital experiences and improve community engagement. Having a trusted partner by their side is critical. From high-growth inner-city councils navigating changing populations and growing service demands, to rural and regional community leaders grappling with unprecedented natural disasters, Granicus serves as a trusted strategic partner to almost 60 per cent of local government in ANZ".
Operational impact
Engagement Cloud introduces features such as multi-channel messaging with high deliverability rates, real-time tracking and trend analysis, consent-based data profiling, and integrated feedback tools. The platform aims to replace standalone or incompatible communication and survey tools by providing an all-in-one solution.
Organisations using the platform report improved outcomes and operational efficiencies. According to data referenced in the launch, Engagement Cloud has resulted in a 40% increase in targeted audience completion rates, a 90% reduction in the cost to engage per individual, and a tenfold rise in participation rates. In addition, local council partners using the platform have reported saving up to 20 hours per month compared to previous legacy processes.
The solution can function as a standalone service or be integrated with other Granicus products and third-party systems, enabling flexibility for various government requirements.
Sector context
Public sector organisations in Australia and New Zealand are adapting to increased demands for digital service delivery and transparency. These pressures have intensified with rapid urban population changes and the need for disaster response in rural and regional areas. Platforms like Engagement Cloud seek to respond to these needs by enabling ongoing, personalised communication and data-driven interaction rather than one-off consultations.
Granicus reports that nearly 60% of local governments in the Australia and New Zealand region utilise its services, reflecting established presence and partnerships with municipal bodies. The company states that it aims to support the public sector's transition to enhanced digital engagement and more responsive service delivery.
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