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The City of Irvine has received a 2024 Digital Cities Survey award for its use of technology to enhance efficiency and customer service.

Irvine was ranked ninth among cities with a population between 250,000-499,999 by the Center for Digital Government, a national research and advisory institute focused on technology policy and best practices in government.

In 2024, the City's Information Technology division adopted innovative new tools that drive digital transformation. Irvine was recognized for its implementation of digital business cards, the introduction of a cloud-based digital guest management system, and the launch of an in-house chatbot through a collaboration with University of California, Irvine (UCI) graduate students.

"Irvine's consistent recognition in the Digital Cities Survey highlights our commitment to serving our community efficiently and effectively," said Mayor Farrah N. Khan. "I am proud of the work our outstanding staff in Information Technology do to create in-house solutions that drive digital transformation."

The digital business cards, generated using a cloud-based identity and access management solution, offer an easy, cost-effective way to update cards, while aligning with Irvine's sustainability goals outlined in its Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

With the "The Receptionist" a cloud-based digital guest management system compiles visitor data from email calendar invites and provides a secure check-in process. When guests arrive at City facilities, they are greeted with a self-service kiosk where they have their photo taken and guest badge printed. Meanwhile, a notification is sent via Microsoft Teams or email to their point of contact at the City, improving efficiency for front desk staff and strengthening security.

Additionally, Irvine launched an in-house chatbot through a collaboration with information computer science graduate students at UCI. The bot, created by the students over a six-month period, can access internal documents stored on SharePoint and respond to staff queries. While the bot is currently handling test data, it is expected to be able to access live data in the future.

The 24th annual Digital Cities Survey recognizes cities in five population categories for their use of technology to enhance digital services and transparency; strengthen cybersecurity, digital privacy rights, and digital equity; and find innovative ways to support solutions for social challenges facing cities today.

The City of Irvine will be recognized at the Digital Cities Awards Dinner November 13 in Florida.

View a complete list of winners in the 2024 Digital Cities Survey(link is external).