Rules as Code (also known as Law as Code) refers to the creation of legal rules in both human and machine-readable languages for use by computers. Its proponents have long advocated for such an approach, citing a variety of benefits, including increased transparency, easier legislative analysis, and improved automation. However, despite such arguments, ‘hard numbers’ have been in relatively short supply.
Tim de Sousa's latest cost/benefit analysis, featured in The Mandarin, attempts to close this gap, offering new insight into a Rules as Code-enabled transformation. Commissioned by an Australian state government agency, the report pursues two key objectives:
(a) identifying “existing rule-sets from across the jurisdiction that could deliver service benefits and improve customer experience in the [New South Wales] government through a [Rules as Code]-enabled transformation”; and
(b) performing “a cost/benefit analysis (CBA) of a single [Rules as Code]-enabled transformation opportunity”.
In addressing the former point, the report identifies various applications that could significantly benefit from a Rules as Code-enabled transformation. These range from simplifying discounted student transport applications, to making biosecurity rules easier to grasp, and enhancing the efficiency of granting planning permissions for residential and commercial projects.
Moreover, in relation to the second point, the paper assesses the “opportunity to simplify requests for development consents”. The findings reveal a compelling business case for “investing in a Rules as Code-enabled solution”, with a cost/benefit ratio of 1:2.61. In simpler terms, each $1 invested is anticipated to yield $2.61 in benefits. And it is not just governments who will benefit from Rules as Code-enabled transformation; industry and individuals stand to gain as well.
For a more in-depth exploration of the report's findings, see here. Additionally, if you're new to Rules as Code, consider checking out our recently launched introductory course here and don't miss our event on 30/01/2024 about the role and challenges of generative AI for digital-ready legislation in Europe.