A highly anticipated project, dubbed “Rulemapping” has been launched by the German government’s agency for springing innovations (Sprind). According to Sprind’s CEO, Rafael Laguna, the software has the potential to revolutionize the administration. In an interview with the Handelsblatt, Laguna stated that the project not only digitizes and checks laws, such as in the taxation sector, but also creates user-friendly programs for citizens and the government. “It will be a new SAP” he said, referring to the popular software system.
Laguna, the founder of Sprind, a 2019-established agency, is a strong advocate for swift action from the next government in innovation policy. He, however, rejects the idea of a digital ministry, as proposed by the Union, citing the time it would take to assemble it from existing ministries that are reluctant to give up their powers. “Nothing will happen for a long time” he said. Instead, he suggests a new digital agency. “For digitalization, you need a completely new culture, which the state does not have” Laguna said, arguing for a new organization with the necessary rights and financial resources.
Sprind, in its independent capacity, seeks out innovative ideas through competitions, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, medicine and energy and supports the most promising projects in its efforts to drive innovation in Germany.