Talking About Algorithms: How Can Interdisciplinary Translation in the Automation of Public Sector Casework Be Facilitated?

Abstract

Motivated by the need to save resources, increase efficiency, and reduce human error, public authorities are increasingly developing digital systems for the automation of casework. Since professional practices and algorithmic systems co-evolve, it is crucial that the expertise of caseworkers is included in the design of these systems. This presupposes that the algorithms can be scrutinised and discussed across professional boundaries. Recent literature on the digitalisation of public administration has called attention to several problems of translation associated with the development of algorithms. This chapter discusses two related problems: the problem of transforming laws, and transforming professional practice into algorithms. Based on interviews with system developers and caseworkers in the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV), the chapter presents and discusses tools and methods for overcoming these problems, and facilitating translation between professional groups in the development of digital decision support systems.