2026 STATE OF DIGITAL GOVERNMENT

Trends in public communications report

In the last year, 68% of surveyed government communications professionals expressed cautious optimism about the integration of artificial intelligence in government services. Coupled with a 15% increase in communicators using AI, the future of government communications is poised to evolve in 2026.

Discover the evolving landscape of digital government in Trends in public communications, part of Granicus’ 2026 State of Digital Government series of reports.

Key takeaways:

  • Gain insights from data-driven strategies to overcome challenges in connecting with segmented audiences and ensuring consistent messaging.
  • Learn about the critical role of unified communications platforms in improving operational efficiency and engagement.
  • Understand how targeted, personalized digital experiences can build public trust and enhance community relationships.
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68%
of government communicators are optimistic about AI
15%
increase in communicators using AI tools year-over-year
550+
government professionals surveyed for this report
3
key areas: unified platforms, personalized experiences, and trust-building strategies
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Essential benchmarks for public sector communications

Achieving excellence in public communications is imperative to building trust and fostering community engagement. Our downloadable asset is your guide to mastering these objectives with data-backed insights and proven strategies.

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Backed by data and practitioner insight

This guide combines data from Granicus digital communications tools with survey responses from over 550 government professionals, gathered in partnership with ath Power Consulting (apc), a leading provider of research, training, and strategy solutions for public and private sectors. It offers government communications professionals valuable insights, comparative data, and trend analysis to help them succeed in today’s challenging landscape.

OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

AI in government communications

Artificial intelligence is transforming public sector communications — but adoption isn’t without hurdles. Explore what’s driving optimism and what barriers remain in 2026.

Get the full AI insights in the report.

A chart from the Trends in public communications report depicting barriers to AI adoption in 2025: 39% overwhelmed by AI tools, 35% data security concerns, 30% cost uncertainty, 35% data-sharing approval issues.

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