Thorsten Kempf Steps into Digital Future of Haßfurt
In a pivotal move to advance its digital transformation, Haßfurt has appointed a new Chief Digital Officer (CDO), the 46-year-old Thorsten Kempf. Born in Coburg, Kempf succeeds Madlen Müller-Wuttke, now a spokesperson for the Würzburg district since January 1. With over 17 years of administrative experience, including heading statistics and urban research in Erlangen, Kempf is geared to spearhead the digitization of Haßfurt.
Taking office amidst critical high waters, Kempf confronts recent flooding challenges by focusing on the AI-based flood protection project underway. This urgency underscores his transition during these pressing times.
Kempf’s rural shift inspired by Haßfurt’s innovative zeal
The lure of rural life coupled with Haßfurt’s technological and ecological strides enticed Kempf to make a provincial pivot. Impressed by the city’s commitment to innovation—including being powered entirely by renewable energy and its expansive sensor network—he is eager to contribute to its future-oriented vision.
Urban Data Platform: Kempf’s priority
One of Kempf’s main objectives includes developing an urban data platform to serve as a central repository for Haßfurt’s critical data. This platform aims to simplify administrative processes and enhance the transparency and foundation of municipal planning, benefiting citizens by saving both time and money.
Sensor Infrastructure for a Smarter Haßfurt
The project’s only visible aspect to citizens thus far might be its flood measurements, part of its AI-based flood protection initiative. A budding sensory infrastructure, along with the data platform, will forge formidable groundwork for the future. Moreover, working in collaboration with other cities to create a predictive model for flood events is a core mission for Chief Technical Officer Diethard Sahlender and his team.
Proactive Data Integration for Emergency Management
Proactive strategies form the crux of this transformative journey. Integrating various environmental and weather data into the system fosters an anticipatory stance in emergency management. Current measures and flood level data are already accessible online, yet these initiatives largely remain inconspicuous to the public eye.
Kempf’s central challenge lies in creating measures built on this foundation that are directly beneficial and visibly notable to the residents—an information and participation platform being the next step. Addressing topics such as public transport, emergency management, and community work with clubs, Kempf is poised to shape Haßfurt’s digital horizon.
Key Questions & Answers:
– What experience does Thorsten Kempf bring to his role as CDO of Haßfurt?
Answer: Thorsten Kempf brings over 17 years of administrative experience, including serving in a leadership role in statistics and urban research in Erlangen.
– Why was Kempf’s appointment to CDO particularly timely for Haßfurt?
Answer: Kempf’s appointment came at a time when Haßfurt was facing the challenge of recent floods, highlighting the need for an AI-based flood protection project, which is a priority in his role.
– What are Kempf’s primary goals as Haßfurt’s CDO?
Answer: Kempf aims to develop an urban data platform for Haßfurt to centralize critical data, simplify administrative processes, and enhance municipal planning transparency. Additionally, he plans to strengthen the city’s sensor infrastructure and integrate environmental and weather data for better emergency management.
Key Challenges & Controversies:
– Transparency and Privacy: Balancing the creation of an extensive data platform with the need for personal privacy and data security will be an ongoing challenge.
– Public Engagement: Making the technological advancements visible and demonstrating their direct benefits to the residents stand as a significant challenge.
– Resource Allocation: As with any public initiative, there may be debates over the cost and priorities within the digitization process, including how resources are allocated to different projects.
Advantages:
– Efficiency: A well-integrated urban data platform can streamline municipal planning, saving time and reducing costs.
– Informed Decision-Making: With an expansive sensor network and AI models, decision-makers can proactively manage emergencies like floods.
– Sustainability: Emphasizing renewable energy and ecological initiatives aligns with global efforts to achieve sustainable urban living.
Disadvantages:
– Implementation Costs: The upfront investment in digital infrastructure and platforms may be significant.
– Resistance to Change: Residents and administrators accustomed to traditional methods may resist digital transformation.
– Safety and Security Risks: Integrating systems and managing vast amounts of data entails risks, such as potential cybersecurity threats.
For further information relevant to digital innovation and the tasks of a Chief Digital Officer, you can visit the following link:
Digital Strategy by the European Commission
Note that for privacy and security, the municipality of Haßfurt’s official website or links to specific projects are not provided without confirmation of their accuracy and relevance.