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Beyond roads and bridges

The shift to remote work and telemedicine has big implications for infrastructure. Purely “physical” infrastructure (roads, bridges, electricity) is shifting to more “physical-digital” infrastructure, with broadband, self-driving cars, and “smart infrastructure” taking center stage. New focus on the environment and broad social benefits are also reshaping infrastructure thinking.

The pandemic is shifting demand

Many respondents expect more work from home, more broadband, and more transportation options. However, only 4% believe that there will be fewer people living in cities.

Expect fewer people living in cities Expect less demand for urban office space Expect more people working from home Expect more demand for broadband Expect more demand for multimodal transportation LESS CHANGE GREATER CHANGE
Expect more demand for multimodal transportation Expect more demand for broadband Expect more people working from home Expect less demand for urban office space Expect fewer people living in cities LESS CHANGE GREATER CHANGE

Cybersecurity a top concern

As government shifts to more digital infrastructure, cyber risk becomes a concern. About 76% of global infrastructure leaders expect greater focus on data security over the next three years.

Invest to improve data security Shift towards digital infrastructure investments Expand the number of electric vehicle charging stations
76% Shift towards digital infrastructure investments 70% Expand the number of electric vehicle charging stations 63% Invest to improve data security

Technology will reshape infrastructure

Many respondents expect artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity to reshape infrastructure—a clear signal that infrastructure is going digital.

AI/machine learning Cloud computing Cybersecurity technologies Autonomous/ electric vehicles 5G
AI/machine learning Cloud computing Cybersecurity technologies Autonomous/ electric vehicles 5G

Green infrastructure is in demand

About 60% of respondents globally said that they plan to invest in urban places for walking, cycling, socializing, and eating.

Infrastructure’s biggest obstacle? TALENT.

Interestingly, respondents see talent shortage as a bigger obstacle to executing infrastructure projects than budget constraints or regulatory barriers.

Learn more about Deloitte Center for Government Insights

The Deloitte Center for Government Insights shares inspiring stories of government innovation, looking at what’s behind the adoption of new technologies and management practices. Through research, forums, and immersive workshops, our goal is to provide public officials, policy professionals, and members of the media with fresh insights that advance an understanding of what is possible in government transformation.

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William Eggers

William Eggers

Executive director
Deloitte Center for
Government Insights

Deloitte Services LP

weggers@deloitte.com
John O'Leary

John O'Leary

State and local research

Deloitte Center for
Government Insights

jpoleary@deloitte.com
Avi Schwartz

Avi Schwartz

Principal | Risk & Financial Advisory

Deloitte Transactions
& Business Analytics

avschwartz@deloitte.com
Michael Flynn

Michael Flynn

Global Government & Public Services
Financial Advisory leader

Global Infrastructure, Transport
& Regional Government leader

micflynn@deloitte.ie