Why the Superfluid Model is essential for Singapore's public services

Adopting generative AI and Web3 tools can strengthen the superfluid model.

External disruptions can severely impede organisational transformations, posing a challenge that affects nearly half of organisations in Singapore, including those in the public sector.

To tackle these near-term problems whilst generating long-term value, EY suggests that public-sector organisations adopt a "superfluid model," which "breaks the linear workflows inhibiting connectivity within and beyond the organisation."

Applying this model would help organisations manage turning points, especially amid changes like mandatory flexi-work requests starting on 1 December, which require the public sector to approach the future of work differently.

EY experts Samir Bedi and Marie-Claude Ferland advise organisations to adopt tools like generative AI, Web3, and data to strengthen the superfluid model and optimise operations within a reliable governance framework.

"New technologies available to civil servants, such as AI and big data, have great potential and present opportunities to reimagine public services," the experts said.

The experts, however,  underscored that organisations need to cultivate talent to collaborate with intelligent machines.

" To prepare their workforce for the adoption of emerging technologies, government leaders need to prioritize the closure of talent gaps and alignment with employees on new, preferred ways of working," the EY experts said.

"They need to assess their workforce for not only technical skills in fields like GenAI but also soft skills like critical thinking and resilience — and how the overall talent strategy supports organisational goals. Investment in upskilling and re-skilling is essential for the successful implementation of emerging technologies," the experts added.

The experts added that governments still need to adopt a human-centred approach to transformation, whilst fully recognizing the opportunities and risks of technologies.