The impact of digitalization in the public sector: a systematic literature review

Abstract

The digitalization of public administration is increasingly moving forward. This systematic literature review analyzes empirical studies that explore the impacts of digitalization projects (n=93) in the public sector. Bibliometrically, only a few authors have published several times on this topic so far. Most studies focusing on impact come from the US or China, and are related to Computer Science. In terms of content, the majority of examined articles studies services to citizens, and therefore consider them when measuring impact. A classification of the investigated effects by dimensions of public value shows that the analysis of utilitarian-instrumental values, such as efficiency or performance, is prevalent. More interdisciplinary cooperation is needed to research the impact of digitalization in the public sector. The different dimensions of impact should be linked more closely. In addition, research should focus more on the effects of digitalization within administration.

Digitalization of Romanian Public Administration: A Panel Data Analysis at Regional Level

“…Once its specific costs have been amortized, digitalization profits not only to the government but also to the citizens (Carter & Bélanger, 2005;Belanger & Hiller, 2006). Nonetheless, the subject of digital taxation has not been studied enough in the literature (Fischer et al, 2021;Olbert & Spengel, 2019).…”

“…The crisis changed this dynamic as restrictions were imposed to limit in-person interaction and cash usage. Therefore, digital transformation (understood as not only a digitalization of the processes, but as a more comprehensive institutional change (Fischer et al, 2021)) of the tax collection system became a must (Țibulcă, 2021). The drastic change in the digitalization process was a common characteristic for many tax administrations worldwide (OECD, 2021) which shifted fast to offering e-services to their taxpayers.…”

Digitalization of public administration in EU member states in times of crisis: the contributions of the national recovery and resilience plans

“…Public administration theorists and practitioners have defined and evaluated advanced technologies in relation to the impact these have on public services and their beneficiaries (Demir, 2022; Fischer et al, 2021; Jarke, 2021; Mossberger et al, 2007). Without limiting it to the technical dimension, the literature review places the functioning of public administration in a context marked by the digital transformation that has permeated in society, globally (Martin, 2008; Lynn et al, 2018).…”

Digital Transformations of Public Administration in Countries with Transition Economies

“…As a result, managers of public organizations and structures necessitate a greater openness to innovation. Fischer et al (2021) investigated different theoretical approaches to digitalization, including social value theory, economic evaluation of information systems and found a lack of a holistic perspective to study the impact, particularly with regards to the societal values of the digitalization process within public administration. Alenezi's (2022) study found that a government's digital transformation provides value, strengthens relations, fulfils citizens' requests, develops the economy, accelerates economic activity, boosts citizen engagement, improves policy implementation and effectiveness, and positively impacts business growth.…”