“Fail fast, fail often” has become a mantra for the modern age, with start-ups pursuing innovative solutions through the rapid and constant iteration. But when governments look to innovate- with projects that can impact millions of lives and cost millions of euro – falling fast and often simply isn’t an option. 

It is a problem that can lead to a hesitant approach to innovation, particularly on a federal scale. There have been several cases where governments have come unstuck in the face of new technology. Technological blunders in the roll-out of large-scale overhaul welfare in the United Kingdom- or HealthCare. Gov in the United States are stark reminders of the potential pitfalls for governments with technological ambition.