Prospects of the Digital Transformation of the Greek Public Sector through Private-Public Partnerships: A Perception Study

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent that the evolution of Greek public administration is important in the interest of society, the extent to which Greek society is able to assimilate and support the digital transformation, as well as the benefits and weaknesses of Public-Private Partnerships projects in the context of the effort of digital transformation of the Greek public sector. The survey was conducted through a questionnaire that involved 85 employees and through 11 interviews with executives working in senior positions. The results showed that the digital transformation of the Greek public sector brings social benefits, which increase the quality of public services. The Greek public sector has not yet completed its digital transformation, although remarkable efforts have been made in the last few years. The digital transformation will lead to the opening of new jobs and the existing civil servants have to be properly trained. According to the results of this research, the framework of PPP projects is characterized by several shortcomings and weaknesses, such as time delays and bureaucratic procedures. In Greece, compared to other European countries, double the contracting time of PPP projects is required, but both the public and private sectors benefit from these partnerships. The public sector acquires an alternative source of funding and expertise, and the private sector can develop its innovation and improve its extroverted character toward global markets.