The Berlin Senate Chancellery has begun the active implementation of new administrative software that uses the capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI). It should be noted that the Senate Chancellery is responsible for coordinating and facilitating the work of ten specialised Senate departments of the capital and federal state of Berlin.

The main objective of this software development is to transform official and administrative documents into language that is more understandable and accessible for citizens. As a result, Berlin authorities at various levels are now able to automatically adapt and simplify texts written in formal administrative language to the level of so-called “plain language”. This refers to a form of presenting information that is accessible to all groups of the population and enables them to find, understand and use the required information in everyday life.

This software system is intended for processing textual content published on government websites, as well as for simplifying official correspondence. In the past, the complex administrative language used by public authorities often represented an ambiguous and difficult obstacle for many citizens.

The removal of specific technical terms, which are sometimes difficult for many people to understand, is intended to address this issue. In addition, the use of “plain language”, characterised by short sentences, a clear structure and basic vocabulary, is particularly important for people with learning disabilities as well as for those with limited educational backgrounds or knowledge. The effectiveness of the new software will be subject to regular analysis and objective evaluation.

Commenting on the introduction of the software, Martina Klement, State Secretary for Digitalisation and Administrative Modernisation of the Berlin Senate and Chief Digital Officer of the State of Berlin, stated:

“The AI-based tool provided by the Senate Chancellery enables administrative staff to instantly convert texts into clear and simple language. This increases transparency and accessibility in many administrative processes and helps to remove barriers between public authorities and citizens. I am pleased that digitalisation is helping to make life easier for both our staff and the people of Berlin.”