User studies: What does it take to scale robots in municipal operations?

October–December 2025

User studies: What does it take to scale robots in municipal operations?

How can autonomous robots create real value in municipal operations — and what is required to scale technology from pilot testing to everyday use?

In Autumn 2025, ITK conducted interviews and site visits with a range of stakeholders to explore this question. The aim was to understand real-world workflows, operational challenges, and practical opportunities — and to assess where technologies such as those developed in the ARLI project can realistically make a difference.

Waste management as a case study

One focus area has been municipal waste management, particularly bulky waste collection and maintenance in public space.

Kredsløb, responsible for waste services for approximately 184,000 households in the City of Aarhus, highlighted several operational challenges. Collection crews sometimes drive to locations where bulky waste has already been removed or incorrectly placed near underground containers, blocking access and requiring additional service vehicles.

At the same time, fixed service vehicles operate across the city to handle unexpected issues. A key discussion point has been whether these efforts could become more demand-driven rather than route-based.
Here, robotic technology could play a role. If a robot can continuously detect blockages, overfilled areas, or other irregularities, operations could be planned based on real-time observations rather than fixed schedules — potentially reducing unnecessary trips and targeting resources where they are needed.

Insights into daily operations

Following dialogue with Kredsløb, we also visited their subcontractor, Verdis, to better understand daily operational routines.

Verdis already works systematically to report and share information to avoid unnecessary driving. At the same time, increasing waste volumes — partly driven by e-commerce and changing consumption patterns — are putting additional pressure on operations.

A potential use case discussed was the ability of robots to detect physical obstructions in public space, such as illegally parked vehicles or temporary barriers that prevent waste trucks from accessing containers. If drivers are notified in advance, routes can be adjusted, reducing delays and operational friction.

Responsibility and organisational context

In dialogue with the City of Aarhus’ Technical Services and Environment department, an important point emerged: for the technology to be practically useful, it must be able to distinguish between areas of responsibility.
Is an issue located on municipal land? Is it the responsibility of Kredsløb? Or does it concern private property?
Data alone is not sufficient. It must be relevant, precise, and actionable within the organisational structures responsible for responding.

From testing to scalable solutions

The autumn user studies have provided valuable insight into how robotic technology can be integrated into existing workflows — and where barriers exist.
Scaling autonomous robots in municipal operations require more than accurate measurements. It demands an understanding of organizational structures, responsibilities, budgets, and the realities of daily work.

For this reason, the ARLI project focuses not only on sensors and navigation, but also on the practical and organizational conditions necessary for creating real operational value.