Q: Who were your digital ambassadors?
A: In 2023, the Bautzen Innovation Centre appointed Michael Paduch, its Managing Director, as East Saxony’s digital ambassador for the JETforCE project. The subject was selected on the basis of his availability, experience in communicating digital tools to diverse stakeholders, and extensive regional network, which positions him well to facilitate connections between civil society, government, and local businesses.
Q: What was their role?
A: Michael Paduch was responsible for the coordination of the local JETA group, a role which encompassed the recruitment of participants and the establishment of a platform for ongoing exchange. He spearheaded the internal testing of Transnational Pilots 1 and 2, providing detailed suggestions and bug reports that led to substantial improvements in technical performance and usability. Furthermore, he presented the tools in both virtual and in-person meetings, responded to questions, and communicated with the wider public through local media. For instance, at the 3rd JETA meeting on 13 May 2024, he presented an early iteration of Transnational Pilot 1 to the participants.
Q: What worked well?
A: The local JETA has rapidly evolved into a dynamic forum for exchange and cooperation. Notwithstanding the team’s limited in-house expertise in software and interface design, they were able to identify and communicate numerous improvements, particularly for Pilot 1. Regular interaction with the JETA was identified as a key factor in the refinement of the tools and the assurance that they met local needs.
Q: What challenges did you face?
A: Initial technical issues with the early versions of Pilot 1 led to a delay in the promotion and utilisation of the tool, as the promotion of an unfinished product was deemed to risk alienating the intended target audience. These issues led to a delay in the development of momentum, but were ultimately resolved, thereby facilitating meaningful participation.
Q: Would you change anything in how you managed or structured the process?
A: No fundamental changes would be made, but a more successful approach to broader outreach to general civil society could be adopted. In retrospect, closer collaboration with local media outlets could have facilitated the identification of a more extensive cohort of participants, extending beyond those already engaged in energy transition-related discourse.
Q: Any feedback from the community?
A: The residents appreciated the opportunity to interact directly with a knowledgeable local ambassador. Clear, practical explanations and demonstrations of the tools helped participants to understand and engage with the JETforCE project, thereby strengthening trust and local involvement.