On the 19th of June 2025, digital transformation experts from across Europe gathered for an online expert meeting to exchange good practices and technical insights to improve the LORDIMAS tool dedicated to mapping digital maturity and sharing digital governance innovations among European cities and regions.

The session, chaired by Kyle Galea, opened with an overview of the agenda, which focused on enhancing usability, fostering inclusivity, and scaling digital best practices. Participants from diverse organisations and local governments contributed examples of how digital innovation is reshaping citizen engagement and public service delivery.

Unlocking Local Innovation Through Digital Twins and Hubs

Several best practice pitches showcased how regions are leveraging data and collaboration to tackle local challenges. Rodolphe Doité presented a digital twin initiative developed in Brussels through FARI, aimed at improving public safety and urban planning. Similarly, Raffaele from DIH Datalife introduced the Connecta Hubs project in Galicia, Spain, which fosters regional innovation by connecting startups and public administrations via collaborative hubs.

Both examples underscored the importance of engaging stakeholders; municipalities, academia and citizens alike, in building digital ecosystems that deliver tangible value.

Submission Process: Striving for Accessibility and Clarity

Martin Gauk held a technical segment on refining the LORDIMAS submission form. Feedback from a number of members pointed to the challenges faced by municipalities, particularly those with limited digital capacity. Participants proposed simplifying the form with clearer guidance, infographics and practical examples to lower barriers to entry.

Discussion also touched on the definition of “best practices,” with several contributors suggesting that showcasing “lessons learned,” including from unsuccessful efforts, could enrich peer learning.

Digital Twin Practices from Across Europe

The meeting featured a section of digital twin projects: from Rennes’ 3D urban modelling platform to Lyon’s open data-driven monitoring of urban heat zones, and Deferdange’s energy-consumption mapping in Luxembourg. Each case demonstrated how data integration and user-centric design can improve planning, environmental monitoring, and public service delivery.

Strengthening Digital Governance

The Apulia region presented its new Regional Competence Centre for Artificial Intelligence, designed to accelerate responsible AI uptake in public administration. In Emilia-Romagna, a robust data governance framework supports municipalities through roles such as data stewards and advisors. Meanwhile, Zagreb’s holistic smart city strategy stood out as a model for digital governance reform, enabling faster project approvals and stronger citizen participation.

Supporting Local Transformation

The Local Digital Agenda in Emilia-Romagna emerged as a key enabler for municipalities embarking on digital transformation. The initiative combines formal planning, technical assistance, and peer learning via Thematic Communities of Practice (TCOPs).

Participants acknowledged the need for stronger political backing, clearer definitions, and more user-friendly submission processes to encourage participation in LORDIMAS. The role of incentive mechanisms and multilingual resources was also highlighted as essential for wider uptake.

Looking Ahead

Concrete next steps include revising the submission form, publishing the good practices discussed, and expanding digital twin catalogues. A follow-up is planned to monitor implementation progress and further support municipalities in navigating their digital journeys. 

This also set the stage for the next meeting of the LORDIMAS Experts, happening this September, which will focus on policy recommendations tied to digital transformation.