What We Can Learn from Norway
Sandra Rehder, Managing Director, BOLD Consulting
Oslo is a quiet surprise. On closer inspection, Norway’s capital emerges as a city that sets benchmarks in digital transformation – not with flashy tech showcases, but with consistent implementation, integrated urban planning and smart regulation. It’s precisely this quiet determination that makes Oslo a model for many European cities – including those in Germany.
During my recent visit to Norway, I met with representatives from city government, research institutions and the private sector. My conclusion: digital transformation in Oslo is not an end in itself, but a tool – a means to improve quality of life, sustainability and systemic resilience.
Here are five key areas where Oslo and Norway are currently leading the way:
1. Digital Public Services (E-Government):
Norway’s public sector is almost fully digitised. Tax documents, medical appointments, childcare – all handled through central, secure platforms. The services are user-friendly and easily accessible.
2. Smart Mobility:
Oslo is pushing forward with electric mobility, digitally managed traffic systems and multimodal mobility platforms. Over 80% of new vehicle registrations are fully electric – and the number is still rising.
3. Open Data Policy:
Public data is systematically made available to researchers, businesses and citizens. This enables innovation in areas such as environmental monitoring and urban planning.
4. Sustainable Urban Development:
New districts such as Oslo Science City are planned entirely through digital, data-driven methods. Simulations of traffic flows, energy needs and climate resilience are standard practice.
5. Cybersecurity & Public Trust:
Norway invests not only in technology, but in public trust. Data privacy is handled transparently and securely – a key success factor for broad acceptance.
What can we learn from this?
Digital transformation works when it is treated as a societal project – driven equally by government, business and the public. Oslo demonstrates that pragmatism, trust and clear benefits are what truly move things forward.
At BOLD, we believe: real digital transformation doesn’t begin with tools – it begins with mindset.
February 2024
