From pilot project to success story
The GovLab at the Arnsberg District Government is bringing a fresh, modern approach to public administration. But even here, the challenges of the public sector are hard to ignore. Maike Linzel, Viviene Rammelmann, Isabell Oberstadt and Christian Stuhldreier — the creative force behind the GovLab — are all too familiar with the struggles: open roles that remain unfilled, a shortage of skilled professionals, and mounting pressure to cut costs.
We're really under pressure to save money, so every move is scrutinized. We often work with people from other agencies and organizations, and with external service providers — remotely, of course — which requires us to organize our work differently.
Christian Stuhldreier
GovLab, Arnsberg District Government
The demand for flexible working is also increasing — another complex problem that needs a straightforward and effective solution. This is where digital collaboration really proves its worth.
In February 2022, Christian Stuhldreier and his team marked a clear step toward digitalization by introducing MeisterTask. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the Arnsberg District Government successfully replaced analog sticky notes with digital Scrum boards. Teams could now plan, prioritize and collaborate transparently from anywhere, at any time.
Today, MeisterTask is an integral part of the GovLab’s workflows and has been widely adopted across the organization. The conversation around digitalization has shifted. It’s no longer about if digital tools have a place in public services, but how to use them more effectively to make administration smarter and more efficient.
Paving the path to success
The GovLab team continues to be the digital heartbeat of the district government. It’s a place where ideas are born, tools are tested and processes are continually challenged and improved.
The team’s impact reaches beyond its own projects: More and more departments are turning to the GovLab for support in optimizing workflows or learning how to make the most of MeisterTask, explains Maike Linzel.
To meet the growing interest in AI, the GovLab now provides internal AI workshops and presentations for teams across the organization. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with weekly sessions already scheduled through to the end of the year.
We’ve received 26 workshop requests straight off the bat. The interest and demand are definitely there. Some teams have specific use cases in mind, and the workshops also spark new ideas.
Isabell Oberstadt
GovLab, Arnsberg District Government
When it comes to using MeisterTask, the GovLab sets the standard. Everything is organized via shared boards — from daily task assignments to documentation of key decisions. This transparency saves the team a lot of time.
The flexibility gained through digital boards is especially beneficial as it allows team members to work productively from the office or from home.
Everyone always knows who’s working on what. That helps us avoid duplication and stay aligned, because we always know where the overlaps are.
Christian Stuhldreier
GovLab, Arnsberg District Government
Where vital information once got lost in paper files or chaotic email threads, today it’s all centralized and easy to find.
Measurable, meaningful results
Despite limited resources, the GovLab has proven that the right digital tools can streamline processes and save time.
Key achievements:
Fewer emails: The team now communicates directly via comments in MeisterTask — saving time, reducing clutter and cutting down on the endless search for information.
Structured meetings: Teams prepare and document agenda items directly in the board, making discussions more focused.
Better traceability: Decisions are documented right where they happen — in task comments. That makes them easy to find and reference later.
We don’t need to send an email for anything and everything. We use MeisterTask’s comment function for communication, which also reduces the time we spend searching for information. Everything is in one place, and we always know where to look.
Isabell Oberstadt
GovLab, Arnsberg District Government
The team also values MeisterTask’s time tracking function for improving visibility into project progress.
For us, it's often about measurability. We want to move away from a vague sense of how much work we did in a week or sprint. MeisterTask helps us clearly document what we achieved, and what’s still pending.
Christian Stuhldreier
GovLab, District Government Arnsberg
This enables the team to allocate time effectively — especially important since most team members divide their time across multiple departments.
Rethinking administration for a modern workplace
Looking ahead, the GovLab team envisions an even more flexible, digital-first approach to public administration. Less time tied to the office, more room for remote work — and a mindset that connects people, breaks down silos and gradually dismantles rigid hierarchies. It’s a shift that could ease the pressure on teams and create space for real progress.
They also see digitalization as a way to attract young talent or involve student assistants more efficiently. Remote options, says Vivien Rammelmann, are becoming a key factor for younger applicants.
They have a clear message for policymakers too: Digital transformation takes courage, investment, and strong leadership. Without this, the system is at risk of stagnation.
The GovLab’s top three tips for successful digital transformation:
Just get started — don’t overplan, learn by doing.
Find champions — engage enthusiastic employees as digital ambassadors.
Create transparency — make successes visible to win over skeptics and drive change.
Despite all obstacles, the team remains convinced: With the right mindset and the right tools, a forward-looking administration is within reach. And the GovLab will continue to be a driving force in making it a reality.
