For natural resource agencies looking to fulfill their conservation missions, modernizing service delivery is essential. From issuing hunting and fishing licenses to managing various permits, there is a clear need for a more efficient digital system.

Since 50-80% of funding comes from license sales and federal excise taxes, natural resource agencies depend on engaged customers and strong revenue streams, so offering a reliable and easy-to-use license purchase experience is vital for continued success.

4 ways a modern digital platform supports conservation missions

Modernizing service delivery through digital platforms offers numerous benefits. Agencies can collect revenue faster, while simultaneously making it easier for users to access licenses and registrations. And with the improved internal efficiency, agencies can focus on their core mission: conservation.

Here’s how digital helps:

1. Prioritize the customer experience
   Digital platforms offer enhanced user experiences with features like family accounts, multiple payment methods, and offline capabilities. Customers no longer need to drive around to obtain licenses, making the process more convenient and user-friendly.
2. Streamline R3 initiatives
   Comprehensive digital platforms support R3 efforts through content management systems, engagement campaigns, and volunteer event management. By streamlining all of this data into one dashboard, agencies have the information at their fingertips to strategically increase and diversify participation in outdoor activities while supporting conservation.
3. Empower agency staff
   Digital tools provide agency staff with dashboards and data collection capabilities that can support R3 initiatives, handle high-traffic times without failing, simplify reconciliation processes, and ensure compliance with regulations.
4. Eliminate silos
   Digital solutions facilitate better collaboration with law enforcement and other state agencies, enabling easier data sharing. This helps in tracking population levels, monitoring endangered species, and collaborating with other organizations to track poachers.

Prioritize internal change to maximize benefits

A prepared, trained, and excited team is more likely to benefit from digital upgrades (and deliver a great experience to customers). Here are a few ways to set your natural resource agencies up for success:

• Start by envisioning your agency’s end goal, and then create a feasible plan to achieve your objectives.
• Document the specific problems you aim to solve and assess the current technology your agency uses to identify any gaps.
• Then, for a smooth transition to improved service delivery, plan for a phased launch that addresses your most pressing issues first and build from there.

To make these changes effectively, your team needs three key players:

1. The Adoption Champion
   This person embraces the agency’s modernization goals and leads the team toward success. They are the driving force behind the adoption of new technologies and processes.
2. The Agency Advocates
   These individuals partner with the champion to encourage the rest of the agency to embrace change, ensure execution, and communicate all the benefits the technology can offer. They play a crucial role in gaining internal support and driving the change forward.
3. The Technology Partner
   This person provides the necessary expertise and support to ensure the technology aligns with your agency’s goals and needs. They might also help market the new digital solutions to your residents.

By having these key players in place and focusing on a strategic, phased approach, natural resource agencies can effectively embrace digital transformation and achieve their modernization goals.

What to look for as you move forward with digital transformation

When selecting a digital platform, choose one that can adapt to changing needs. Look for features such as an intuitive user experience, integrated payment processing, robust CRM capabilities, and strong security measures.

To learn more about choosing the right vendor and driving engagement, check out our Outdoors Buyers Guide.