Building the digital backbone of the modern city

Behind every successful AI project, digital twin or smart infrastructure programme sits a set of shared digital foundations – data architecture, interoperability, platforms and operating models. 

Here, we take a step back from individual technologies to focus on how cities can build these foundations in a way that supports efficiency, resilience and better public services and citizen outcomes. Drawing on the realities of legacy systems, constrained budgets and complex governance, it will explore how local authorities can move from fragmented IT estates to more coherent, platform-based approaches. 

The session will show how getting the “boring” digital plumbing right enables innovation to scale across departments and programmes, rather than remaining stuck in pockets of experimentation. 

Key talking points: 

• Designing interoperable data and systems architectures that support cross-department working 
• Modernising legacy estates while maintaining service continuity and managing risk 
• Creating governance and operating models that balance innovation with security, standards and public trust 
• Aligning digital foundations with climate, resilience and infrastructure priorities to maximise long-term impact.