New Opportunities in Remote Service Delivery
Online meetings and mobile applications have largely eliminated spatial limitations in social work. This is especially beneficial for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The flexibility brought by these tools shortens intervention times and enables practitioners to reach wider populations.
Data-Driven Approaches and Decision Support Systems
Developed digital platforms and AI-supported analysis tools facilitate data-informed decision-making processes in social work. These tools provide systematic approaches in areas such as risk assessment and intervention planning. However, the ethical use of these technologies, the protection of personal data, and the boundaries of professional conduct must be carefully considered.
The Digital Divide and Risk of Inequality
While digitalization contributes to greater access to services, it also carries the risk of excluding individuals who lack technological infrastructure. For this reason, it is crucial to develop social policies that not only encourage the use of digital tools but also aim to reduce digital inequalities.
Conclusion
When framed within the core values and ethical principles of the profession, digitalization in social work emerges as a powerful means to enhance service delivery and provide practitioners with greater flexibility. However, the rights of service users must be protected, and a human-centered approach to technology use should remain a fundamental priority.
