Articulation, behavior, and control in the world of tomorrow : public servants and the use of social technologies

Abstract

This entry explores the core issues that underpin the use of social technologies within public service. Since the advent of social media, a tension has existed in the way such technologies are used and in terms of the parameters (or lack of) to regulate their usage. The indispensable nature of such tools in establishing an online presence that enhances profile and communication, and the difficulty of managing the way public servants use them, are two sides of the same coin. The entry takes stock of existing knowledge, draws theoretical considerations, and considers new insights for emerging empirical developments. Consequently, three aspects on the use of social technologies; articulation, behavior, and control (the ABCs), are proposed as a conceptual framework. Finally, this entry considers the new technologies that public servants ought to harness as tools that bring about opportunities for the public sector. The challenge is to reskill public servants and ensure that social technologies contribute to problem-solving in an effective manner.