Strengthening rural regions through digital offerings

How can rural communities remain attractive, vibrant and sustainable in the age of digitalization? This was the question addressed by a team from the FHV's degree programme in International Business Administration in cooperation with the municipality of Doren in the Bregenzerwald. FHV students Ebrar Dönmez, Timo Hütter, Jonas Karlinger, Sabine Loretz and Pierre Schöll developed concrete recommendations for action for the Interreg research project "Apollo" as part of the project workshop. The municipality of Doren is a project partner here. The recommendations derived show how an innovative combination of modern infrastructure, new working models and social cohesion can strengthen the development of rural regions. 

Increasing attractiveness

"The aim was to derive recommendations for the digital transformation and modern forms of work in rural areas. The focus was on analyzing how municipalities such as Doren can increase their attractiveness for skilled workers, families and companies through targeted measures. Investments in digital infrastructures, such as the further expansion of broadband internet and the development of coworking facilities, were discussed. The role of social support services, flexible childcare and cross-generational networks also played a role," says project client and mayor Guido Flatz.

Avoiding digital overload

The FHV's interdisciplinary team not only analyzed international examples of good practice, but also conducted its own surveys and interviews with local decision-makers and citizens. The focus was particularly on how digital support services, such as the "Digital Fit" established in Doren, as well as modern communication solutions in the area of childcare, can contribute to simplifying everyday life and making it more flexible. Reinhard Maier, head of the municipality of Doren, emphasized: "Simplifying procedures and avoiding digital overload is particularly important." He sees a great opportunity in a future citizens' service office: "An open, low-threshold contact point, perhaps set up outside the municipal office, which also acts as a hub for volunteering."

There are also already digital innovations in the area of childcare, as Gabriele Blank from the municipal administration reports: "With the KidsFox communication app, parents can conveniently receive information, appointments and surveys digitally. The short distances and personal network in the village also enable flexible and individual childcare solutions."

Doren in a pioneering role

The project team recommends expanding digital infrastructures, strengthening support services for all generations and further developing administrative services with digital tools. The aim is to strengthen the community through remote lunches, digital get-togethers and parent networks. Doren is leading the way as a role model for sustainable rural development. The recommendations offer valuable impetus not only for Doren, but also for other municipalities.