GovThon Launches to Enhance User Experience

The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, through the Unified Government Services Portal, launched the GovThon Services Challenge today. The hackathon aims to improve the user experience on the Gov.om portal by developing digital services that are easier, faster, and more efficient for users.

Running over three days, the challenge brings together participants to create innovative ideas and solutions that enhance the user journey. They will design and test prototypes and study user behavior to improve access to digital services in a simple and effective way.

The hackathon uses a co-design approach that involves the community in improving the digital user experience, unifying design standards for government service interfaces, and enhancing consistency across government entities so that users enjoy a unified and accessible digital experience. Special attention is given to the needs of people with disabilities and the elderly to ensure an inclusive and user-friendly experience for everyone.

A total of 57 participants are taking part in the hackathon, distributed across 12 teams representing various segments of society, including the general public, government and private institutions, entrepreneurs, and startup founders. The teams are competing across multiple tracks, including improving the overall user experience, integrating smart services, mobile-first and omnichannel experience, and smart data and digital trust.

The event also features a series of supporting workshops designed to equip participants with essential tools and skills, including sessions on the Unified Government Services Portal Design Library, digital accessibility, application and project development, critical thinking, and transforming ideas into prototypes.