Derby City Council and Derby Homes partnered with a leading AI company in January 2023 and in April 2023, Derby City Council launched Darcie and Derby Homes launched Ali as web Digital Helpers. In May 2023, Derby City Council and Derby Homes launched Darcie and Ali on the contact centre telephony solution, becoming the first council in the UK to replace its main switchboard with a phone-based AI assistant proficient in council services.

Following on from the implementation of Darcie and Ali, the Council commissioned the AI Partner to conduct a number of discovery workshops, tasked with compiling further specific business cases where the application of AI technology could enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and support the Council's objective of delivering cumulative cost savings.

The business cases, supported by huge and continuing advancements in AI have identified a minimum savings total combined of £12.25m, and will contribute towards the Council’s MTFP, as included in the draft budget proposals being presented to Council Cabinet.