Région Sud Collaborates with Microsoft to Develop a Smart 4.0 Territory Using Azure OpenAI Service and Microsoft 365 Copilot
Exploring the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region and Its Commitment to AI
From the breathtaking peaks of the Southern Alps to the charming streets of Aix-en-Provence and the stunning waters of Saint-Tropez, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) region in France stands out for its rich cultural and natural heritage. Known as the "Région Sud," this area not only offers an exceptional quality of life but also serves as a vital local authority focusing on public services such as health care, education, environmental issues, and innovation.
The Emergence of Europe’s Leading Smart Region
PACA has marked its position as Europe’s pioneering "smart region," showcasing a commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies aimed at boosting economic development and enhancing the lives of its residents. The region is strategically deploying artificial intelligence (AI) as a cornerstone of its vision. According to Raphaëlle Simeoni, Executive Director of Services, and Bernard Kleynhoff, Regional Advisor and Chairman of the Commission for Economic and Digital Development, the strategy focuses on leveraging AI to foster innovation and improve public service quality.
Investment in AI: The SUD IA Plan
The SUD IA plan represents a significant investment in the power of AI, with a budget of €70 million. The plan outlines three main objectives:
- Develop Frugal AI – Focus on AI solutions that are cost-effective and accessible for everyone.
- Make AI Available to All – Ensure that the benefits of AI are enjoyed by the entire community.
- Support the Regional AI Ecosystem – Foster and nurture the local AI landscape.
Kleynhoff emphasizes that the objective is to enhance public service quality while ensuring that no one is left behind in the technological advancements.
Partnering for Successful AI Implementation
To achieve these ambitious goals, the region recognizes the importance of strategic partnerships. Kleynhoff mentions the need for rapid deployment of technical resources without sacrificing quality. Hence, Microsoft has emerged as a key partner in this endeavor. The collaboration allows for the deployment of tailored solutions quickly, empowering local authorities to turn their needs into actionable projects.
The partnership also introduced the "Women and AI" program, aimed at advancing the skills of women in leadership roles within the public sector. Additionally, the establishment of the "Microsoft GenAI Studio Sud" in Marseille will help support local AI startups in scaling their operations.
Transforming Public Administration with AI Tools
The application of AI in the PACA region is already underway, with 22 initiatives focusing on enhancing the working experience of public agents and their interactions with citizens. For instance, a new AI-driven chatbot is now operational in the "Allo Région" call center, enhancing the efficacy of responses to the 75,000 inquiries received annually. Powered by the Azure OpenAI Service and Mistral AI models, this chatbot enables agents to provide accurate information more swiftly, thereby improving overall service delivery.
In addition to the chatbot, AI has automated the verification process for documents required for jobseekers’ training grants, with an impressive capability to process around 30,000 documents yearly. Furthermore, some staff members are testing Microsoft 365 Copilot, which aids in tasks like note-taking and report writing.
Exakis Nelite, a Microsoft partner, is also contributing to this project by assisting in user implementation and supporting team training within the region.
A Vision for Broader Impact through Innovation
Despite being in the early stages, the results from the PACA region’s AI initiatives look promising. According to Simeoni, AI is proving useful and relevant to their operational challenges. The region is focusing on becoming a more accessible government, fostering stronger connections with its citizens. Upcoming plans include further enhancements for the chatbot, such as a user sentiment analysis feature, and the use of AI to improve translation capabilities for international engagements.
Ultimately, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region aims to serve as an incubator for AI innovation for local authorities. By sharing its findings and tools with other administrations, the region is dedicated to improving the daily lives of both its employees and citizens alike.
