Building Digital Bridges with Dr. Data in Halle

The story

Building Digital Bridges – The “Dr. Data” Project

The “Dr. Data” project aims to break down digital barriers and provide the public with easily accessible assistance in their everyday digital lives. It is offered and funded by the City of Halle (Saale) as part of its Smart City project. The Smart City Model Projects (MPSC) are a funding initiative of the Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development, and Construction (BMWSB) that supports cities, municipalities, and counties in developing and implementing digital solutions for sustainable and livable urban development. On behalf of Smart City Halle (Saale), science2public is implementing the “Dr. Data” project.

The mobile Dr. Data team is regularly on the job four days a week at four different locations in Halle-Neustadt. “Dr. Data” is particularly flexible thanks to CARLA, which enables additional deployments at varying locations. The mobile unit—consisting of a cargo bike, a trailer, and an operational team—enables digital education right on-site and meets people where they are. On average, twice a month, the Dr. Data team takes the CARLA to events, where they offer passersby a cup of coffee along with assistance with digital questions regarding smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Up to six working students support the project and are on hand to offer advice and practical help.

The Setup

At the heart of the Smart City Mobile and the “Dr. Data” response team is an eCARLA equipped with a special removable body designed by graduates of the Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design. It has room for everything needed for mobile digital education: a battery box, Wi-Fi router, computers, and tablets.

This multifunctional and mobile solution is not only practical but also a real eye-catcher that draws attention and sparks conversation. Of course, coffee, some lighting, and a few places to sit are essential.

The City of Halle (Saale)’s Smart City Mobile, in conjunction with CARLA, demonstrates that digitalization doesn’t just take place in labs or offices, but can be experienced right in the heart of the urban environment—and with style, sustainability, and direct added value for the public.