Key Takeaways:
- The New Zealand government has launched a new app called Govt.nz, which connects people to all government services.
- The app is designed to be a one-stop-shop for citizens to access various government services, including those related to having a baby, starting a job, enrolling to vote, moving house, and more.
- The app has a simple design and is available for download on both Google Play and the Apple Store, with an average rating of 3.3 stars on Google Play and 4 stars on the Apple Store.
- The app has some limitations, including a lack of te reo Māori language support and limited accessibility for those who are not fluent in written English.
- The app is expected to receive regular updates every six to eight weeks, with plans to add new features such as digital driver’s licenses.
Introduction to Govt.nz
The New Zealand government has given its citizens an early Christmas present in the form of a new app called Govt.nz. The app is designed to connect people to all government services, making it easier for citizens to access the information and services they need. According to Judith Collins, the minister for digitising government, the app is a game-changer, and people will love it just like she loves her banking apps. The app was delivered for under $5 million, which is a significant achievement considering the number of government agencies involved.
Features of the App
The Govt.nz app is a beefed-up version of the existing website, www.govt.nz. It has a simple design and is easy to navigate, with a homepage that allows users to explore services, a menu that takes users to specific services, and a wallet that will eventually be able to hold digital driver’s licenses. The app also allows users to pin particular services to the homepage for quick access. The list of services is extensive, and users can browse alphabetically or by life stage, such as having a baby, starting a job, or moving house.
Usefulness of the App
Despite being an app skeptic, the author can see the potential usefulness of the Govt.nz app. The app provides a one-stop-shop for citizens to access various government services, making it easier for them to navigate the often-complex world of government bureaucracy. The app is particularly useful for those who have recently moved house, as it provides links to services such as home energy savings calculators, school and preschool finder, and tenancy services. The app also has a section for those trying to conceive, with links to fertility and nutrition advice and details about what to ask your doctor.
Limitations of the App
While the Govt.nz app has the potential to be very useful, it also has some limitations. The app lacks te reo Māori language support, with only a few words of Māori language used throughout the app. The design is also very plain, with minimal use of color in the icons. Additionally, the app can be difficult to navigate for those who are not fluent in written English. The app also has some gaps in its services, such as the lack of links to driver education apps or information about getting married, moving out of home, or buying a house.
Future Development
Despite its limitations, the Govt.nz app has the potential to become even more useful with regular updates and investment. The app is expected to receive updates every six to eight weeks, with plans to add new features such as digital driver’s licenses. The app’s simple design and verified information make it a valuable resource for citizens, and it could become an essential tool for navigating government services. As the app continues to develop, it is likely to become an indispensable resource for New Zealand citizens, and its potential to make a positive impact on people’s lives is significant.
