Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/13702
Title: The progression from egovernment to mgovernment : a case for Malta
Authors: Peplow, Robert
Keywords: Electronic government information -- Malta
Government communication systems -- Malta
Mobile communication systems -- Technological innovations -- Malta
Internet in public administration -- Malta
Public administration -- Technological innovations -- Malta
Issue Date: 2016
Abstract: The world of communications has undergone a paradigm shift to invoke the concept of global connectivity. These developments also imply that, nowadays, technological advancements enable interaction between citizens and Government. These days, citizens demand 24x7 services, which can be accessed from anywhere. It can be said that, the world has shifted from manual, to automation to interaction (Heeks, Lallana, 2004). Within this context, mGovernment approaches have the potential to make a substantial contribution to this dynamic environment where governments must become enablers and adapters to propagate the ever-desired competitive edge and to ascertain the sustainability of development. Against this backdrop, this Study sought to determine the extent to which the Maltese Public Service is planning and implementing mGovernment as part of the current digital agenda. The research methodology mainly adopted a qualitative approach, using in-depth semi-structured interviews with key players as well as an observation approach in public consultations concerning discussions on the proposed national mGovernment strategy. This Study concluded that the mGovernment agenda in Malta is gathering momentum. This can be seen through the publication of a Green Paper (2016) and concrete scheduling of the formal adoption of a national strategy and the commencement of service roll-out. However, to varying degrees, mGovernment entails reinventing government service provision which according to Hammer and Champy (as cited by Heeks, 1993:32) requires fundamental rethinking and a radical redesign of business processes – a situation, which this Study confirmed as also prevalent in Malta. Investment concerns and the prolonging of the formal adoption of the strategic, legal and operational frameworks compound the complexities of introducing mGovernment in Malta. Moreover, the opportunity exists for improved cooperation and coordination of the governmental entities involved in driving forward mGovernment initiatives. Despite these concerns, it is augured that Malta exploits its high rate of mobile penetration, which will consequently pave the way for more efficient and transparent government services in accordance with the anytime and anywhere principle. In turn, mGovernment initiatives will form the basis of fulfilling the national strategic vision of elevating Malta as a digital hub.
Description: B.COM.(HONS)PUBLIC POLICY
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar//handle/123456789/13702
Appears in Collections:Dissertations - FacEma - 2016
Dissertations - FacEMAPP - 2016

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