This Recommendation aims to support the development and implementation of digital government strategies that bring governments closer to citizens and businesses. It recognises that today’s technology is not only a strategic driver for improving public sector efficiency, but can also support effectiveness of policies and create more open, transparent, innovative, participatory and trustworthy governments. However, the multiplication of technological options may give rise to new risks and greater societal expectations that governments are not always fully prepared to address. Many governments still do not see technology as a collaborative means to shape public governance outcomes. A “business as usual” approach to technology that reinforces existing internal government processes only leads to failed projects and public criticism.

The Recommendation can enable a fundamental shift from citizen-centric approaches (government anticipating the needs of citizens and businesses) to citizen-driven approaches (citizens and businesses formulating and determining their needs in partnership with governments).

Capturing the value of digital technologies for more open, participatory and innovative governments:

* Using technology to improve government accountability, social inclusiveness and partnerships.

* Creating a data-driven culture in the public sector.

* Ensuring coherent use of digital technologies across policy areas and levels of government.

* Strengthen the ties between digital government and broader public governance agendas.

* Reflecting a risk management approach to address digital security and privacy issues.

* Developing clear business cases to sustain the funding and success of digital technologies projects.

* Reinforcing institutional capacities to manage and monitor project implementation.

* Assessing existing assets to guide procurement of digital technologies.

* Reviewing legal and regulatory frameworks to allow digital opportunities to be seized.

Keywords

addressing the digital divide · business case · digital government strategies · OER policy