Oostende (Ostende) [Ostend], VWV
Municipality in West-Vlaanderen (West Flanders)
Belgium
Oostende (Ostende) [Ostend], VWV consolidates community and staff contacts with O-Punt
O-Punt - O-Point - features a phone number, email, online form, and in-person location for all public requests or complaints. This single contact point simplifies resident interactions with the city compared to time-consuming searches for departmental contacts. Oostende highlighted this new front door to city services with a marketing campaign featuring 18 municipal employees. The introduction of O-Punt was complemented by a new reporting app for field staff.
Oostende (Ostende) [Ostend], VWV
Belgium
Oostende (Ostende) [Ostend], VWV deploys team of experts to solve small business energy issues
Local business owners schedule free reviews by Energiehuis Oostende auditors. Energy-using assets and practices are reviewed during each visit. A final report lists recommended upgrades that can reduce monthly energy usage. Energiehuis Oostende also charges small fees for visits to calibrate new equipment and further develop sustainable practices. This service was created through a partnership with Oostende Economisch Huis and local business groups.
Oostende (Ostende) [Ostend], VWV
Belgium
Oostende (Ostende) [Ostend], VWV deploys Pepper the robot to promote Flemish Sign Language literacy
Pepper was made available for free weekday visits to businesses and organizations starting on 2021 International Sign Language Day. The robot holds a video screen with preprogrammed lessons about Flemish Sign Language (VGT). Recorded lessons cover the VGT alphabet, frequently used words, and names. Oostende developed audio and visual content for effective lessons regardless of user abilities. Local officials previously used Pepper as a front-desk assistant at area hospitals.
Oostende (Ostende) [Ostend], VWV
Belgium