Data, Automation, Digital Technology Being Leveraged by Govt Workers to Improve Efficiency, Report Reveals

Core Insights - Equifax's Social Services Outlook Index reveals that 54% of social service workers find their workplace very efficient, with 100% expecting increased efficiency in the coming year [1] - The survey emphasizes the importance of data and automation, with 57% of workers believing advancements in these areas will enhance their efficiency by 2026 [1] - Key challenges identified include changing policies (49%), insufficient staffing (41%), and lack of automation (41%) [1] Group 1: Efficiency and Technology - Nearly one in four workers (23%) anticipate that increased access to data will significantly improve workplace efficiency [2] - More than one in four (27%) believe technology and automation will most positively impact their ability to determine appropriate benefits for eligible applicants [2] - 40% of social service workers expect a significant increase in their use of technology and automation in the next year [1][2] Group 2: Complexity and Challenges - 98% of government workers foresee an increase in applicants with multiple income streams, such as gig work, complicating their roles [2][3] - 97% of workers express confidence in having the necessary information to assist these individuals, with 46% somewhat confident and 51% very confident [2] Group 3: Process Improvement - Nearly all social service workers (98%) agree that a universal intake process would enhance efficiency [3] - Suggested practical solutions for enhancing efficiency include simplifying eligibility and documentation requirements (38%), increasing internal communication (35%), and addressing accessibility barriers (34%) [4] Group 4: Experience and Advocacy - 99% of workers believe having a single caseworker for multiple programs is beneficial for beneficiaries [5] - Workers with over 10 years of experience are strong advocates for a universal intake form, with 54% supporting it compared to 43% of less experienced peers [5] - 61% of experienced workers find it very helpful for beneficiaries to have one caseworker, compared to 48% among less experienced staff [5] Group 5: Survey Methodology - The Equifax Social Services Outlook Index was conducted from August to September 2025, surveying 500 U.S. government social service workers across various levels and programs [5]