DigiShift 90: Platformland in practice - designing the next generation of digital services

On DigiShift 90 we’ll be hearing from acclaimed author and digital public service pioneer Richard Pope. This session explores the future of digital public services, drawing on insights from Richard’s influential book, Platformland: An Anatomy of Next-Generation Public Services. We will be examining what this means for civil society and how charities deliver digital services in 2025 and beyond.

As a founding member of the UK Government Digital Service and the first product manager for GOV.UK, Richard has played a pivotal role in shaping how citizens experience digital government. His work has set the benchmark for digital transformation in the public sector, both in the UK and globally.

In Platformland, Richard examines how digital platforms and infrastructure can fundamentally transform public services, making them simpler, more transparent, and truly designed for the public good. He argues that, while technology has the potential to reduce administrative burdens and increase democratic participation, too often digital public services are designed with the public as consumers rather than active participants in a democracy. The book offers practical frameworks, illustrated design patterns, and global examples to help organisations and policymakers deliver fairer, more inclusive, and more effective services.

During this fast-paced hour, Richard will share his vision for the next generation of digital public services, discuss key lessons from his career, and answer your questions on how voluntary sector organisations can play a role in shaping digital infrastructure for the common good.

This session is for anyone in the voluntary sector, public service leaders, digital practitioners, policymakers, and those interested in the future of digital government and service design. Whether you’re responsible for digital strategy, service delivery, or simply passionate about building better services, you’ll gain invaluable insights and practical ideas to take forward.

Since March 2020, DigiShift has helped thousands of charities and non-profit organisations learn and collaborate. Run in collaboration between SCVO and Third Sector Lab, and supported by the National Lottery Community Fund (Scotland), DigiShift offers practical and actionable advice from digital experts. 

• "Richard Pope presents the most original, persuasive and practical set of design principles for digital public services since the UK Government Digital Service swept the global stage more than a decade ago.” Richard Sargeant, Partner, Boston Consulting Group