Electronic Government, an International Journal (19 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• The effect of social media factor on the 2024 local election from the voters’ perspective  
  by Zübeyir Çelik, Ibrahim Aydin, Ahmet Ünal, Reha Saydan 
  Abstract: This study aims to try to understand voter behaviours from a broad and different perspective. A comprehensive model has been successfully tested in the study. The study population consists of voters who can vote in the 2024 local elections in Turkey. The study sample consists of 420 people. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data. Social media was found to have a positive effect on voting intention, word of mouth communication, candidate image, voter opinion, and voter trust. The positive effect of candidate image on voter opinion, voter trust, voting intention, and word of mouth communication was found. In addition, it was observed that both voter opinion and voter trust had a positive effect on voting intention and word of mouth communication. Implications are provided in the study.
  Keywords: social media; voting intention; word of mouth communication; candidate image; voter opinion; voter trust.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073357
   
  
• A framework for analysing the impact of critical success factors on e-public procurement processes  
  by Razeehsadat Aboutalebi, Mohammad Aghdasi, Bakhtiar Ostadi 
  Abstract: This study proposes a structured framework for analysing the impact of Critical Success Factors (CSFs) on electronic public procurement (e-PP) processes, with a national case focus on Iran. Drawing upon 458 scholarly sources (2000-2024), the research identifies and validates 15 key CSFs using a two-stage Delphi method, supported by expert interviews and a systematic literature review. These CSFs are mapped to core, support, and monitoring procurement processes based on the socio-technical MIT90s framework. The framework offers actionable insights for improving transparency, efficiency, and stakeholder alignment in government procurement systems. This study contributes to both theory and practice by integrating strategic and process-oriented perspectives into e-PP design. Future research directions include empirical validation, cross-national comparisons, and integration of emerging technologies for enhanced decision-making and risk management.
  Keywords: electronic public procurement; public sector procurement; critical success factors; transparency in procurement; efficiency in procurement; tender processes; procurement processes.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073358
   
  
• Assessment of e-government services by sentiment analysis of citizen comments  
  by Ramiz M. Aliguliyev, Gunay Y. Iskandarli 
  Abstract: Evaluation of e-service quality is currently considered one of the current issues. By improving the quality of e-services through the analysis of citizen comments, organizations can gain an advantage in the online environment and improve their relations with citizens and their satisfaction. Taking these into account, a new method was proposed in order to increase the quality of e-services, citizen satisfaction and their role in management. Sentiment analysis technologies were used in the proposed method. First, citizen comments were analysed for sentiment, using this, the positive and negative weight of each service was determined, based on this, the level of satisfaction of citizens with government bodies was determined. After that, the main problems that the citizens are concerned about and the extent to which these problems were promptly eliminated by the relevant government bodies were determined.
  Keywords: e-service; electronic service; citizen satisfaction; sentiment analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073528
   
  
• Conceptual model of a social credit system on the Electronic Demography 4.0 platform  
  by Alakbarova I. Yavar 
  Abstract: The application of digital technologies in public administration and the potential of using big data to assess citizens require the development of ethically sound and transparent social credit systems integrated into the electronic demographic system. This paper proposes a conceptual model for a social credit system (SCS) built upon the foundation of Electronic Demography 4.0 (E-demography 4.0). E-demography 4.0 provides a rich tapestry of digital data about individuals, offering the potential for a more comprehensive assessment of social credit. However, ethical considerations and potential pitfalls necessitate a carefully designed framework. The proposed model describes in detail the key architectural components of the SCS, including data sources, functional modules for collecting, processing, and analysing data, as well as mechanisms for the formation and visualisation of social credit. The article explores the synergistic potential of integrating the E-demography 4.0 system with the national population register (NPR) and the SCS. The assessment and management of social credit on the E-demography 4.0 platform can be important for more effective analysis of citizen behaviour and forecasting of social processes to ensure effective social management.
  Keywords: Industry 4.0; E-demography 4.0; social credit; conceptual model; national population registers; NPRs.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10074340
   
  
• E-government development: experience from Sumedang Local Government  
  by Arip Rahman Sudrajat, Lesmana Rian Andhika 
  Abstract: This study aims to examine the role of transformational leadership in the development of e-government at the Sumedang Local Government. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 30 informants, comprising local leaders, SPBE managers, and staff, as well as focus group discussions and document analysis. The findings reveal that e-government success in Sumedang is not solely determined by technological infrastructure but is strongly influenced by leadership, which provides idealised influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and personalised consideration. Transformational leadership, distributed leadership, and cross sector collaboration significantly enhance bureaucratic efficiency, accountability, and digital culture. Despite barriers such as inadequate technology infrastructure, digital literacy gaps, and human resource competencies, effective leadership facilitates sustainable innovation. This study concludes that strengthening transformational leadership and collaboration is crucial to achieving long-term e-government development in local governments.
  Keywords: e-government; development; transformational leadership; local government.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10074962
   
  
• Adoption of contact tracing mobile application during COVID-19 pandemic in India  
  by Jeganathan Gomathi Sankar, Arokiaraj David, P. Victer Paul, C. Ganeshkumar 
  Abstract: The purpose of the study is to investigate the factors that influenced the use of the Aarogya Setu contact tracing mobile application, which was made available by the Indian government during the COVID-19 pandemic. It uses an integrated conceptual framework to investigate how well technology adoption works in public health surveillance. The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) and E-SERVQUAL frameworks are adopted in the study to develop a postulated model. A quantitative approach was used, and data were gathered from 574 health workers across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was employed to test the hypothesised relationships among the constructs. The findings show that users’ preference towards using the Aarogya Setu application is significantly influenced by efficiency and social impact. In the context of health-tech adoption, the model showed strong fit and provided empirical support for the integrated framework. This study contributes to the growing literature on digital health interventions by providing a verified approach to understand contact tracing application adoption. It offers practical insights for policymakers and app developers to enhance the design and deployment of mobile health tools during public health crises.
  Keywords: contact tracing; Aarogya Setu; COVID-19; technology adoption; theory of acceptance; digital health; health technology; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10075903
   
  
• SmartCity Kochi using IoT technologies  
  by Somayya Madakam, Hema Date 
  Abstract: The new urban phenomenon, ‘smart cities’, is no farther away from reality across the globe. Smart cities are marrying internet of things (IoT) technologies to provide quality of life. SmartCity Kochi (SCK) is an excellent example of boosting the economy, quality of life as well as sustainability. Smart cities phenomena are new and contemporary. Hence, the study comes under an exploratory. The triangulation method was used for data collection including in-depth interview, observation, survey, and secondary data. The software used is; SPSS for the reliability checking of the study and content analysis for research notes; ATLAS.ti i.e. for secondary data analysis to draw network diagrams, word cloud, and super-family. The study explored in detail SCK from the economic, environmental, mobility, governance, public, and living perspectives. SCK is boosting Keralas economic development. The learning of the case is that innovative city development is based on trying to achieve by designing, implementing strategies, and deploying IoT technologies in all city dimensions to tackle significant urban challenges.
  Keywords: SmartCity Kochi; SCK; internet of things; IoT; economic development; quality of life; sustainability; employment.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10076091
   
  
• Street level bureaucrats' inclusive leadership style and citizen satisfaction: the mediation role of sound governance using a Gaussian copula approach  
  by Pankaj Tiwari 
  Abstract: We believe that ‘sound governance’ aims to achieve the same results as ‘good governance’ in ensuring the satisfaction of its citizens in the healthcare sector. Street-level bureaucrats in the healthcare sector are essential to achieving this goal because they interact with citizens regularly. Therefore, this study aims to examine the relationship between inclusive leadership and citizen satisfaction in the presence of sound governance. In this study, we interviewed 254 citizens of the Uttarakhand Region who receive health care services from Anganwadis (the street-level bureaucrat) workers. We analysed the data using partial least squares and structural equation modelling. The relationship between sound governance and citizen satisfaction was positive and statistically significant with citizen satisfaction. Unlike other studies, our study used a Gaussian copula to analyse the association between random variables. We included the control variables, age and education, in our study. Our model can predict a 54.5% variation in citizen satisfaction from the Anganwadi program. Our results show how inclusive leadership and sound governance pillars such as structures, processes, values and other dimensions can strengthen health initiatives in the healthcare sector.
  Keywords: Anganwadi; sound governance; inclusive leadership; citizen satisfaction; street-level bureaucrats; Gaussian copula.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10076404
   
  
• Enhancing personal data protection: a comparative study of legal frameworks in Kazakhstan, European Union, and China  
  by Gulbakyt Bolatbekkyzy 
  Abstract: The study aims to address the lacuna in the existing literature regarding the intersection of digital practices with domestic legal norms, particularly in the realm of personal data protection. Research findings identify legal gaps and limitations in current legislation on personal data protection in Kazakhstan and by utilising various research methodologies, including general scientific, specific approaches and comparative analysis across different jurisdictions, such as the EU and China, offers tangible insights for government agencies and corporations. Discussing the basic purpose of specific principles of legislation and the need of legislative consolidation of their content are what make this research practical. The unique legal concepts pertaining to the safeguarding of personal information have not received much attention in Kazakh legal scholarship, along with that absence of the comprehensive comparative analysis on the existing international frameworks with extraterritorial reach makes this article scientifically significant.
  Keywords: protection of personal data; GDPR; PIPL; legislation principles; extraterritorial scope; Kazakhstan; legal regulation.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10076649
   
  
• Availability and accessibility of internet financial reporting: the role of regional effect  
  by Agus Budiatmanto, Doddy Setiawan, Sri Hartoko, Taufiq Arifin, Aulia M. Fitriani 
  Abstract: Internet financial reporting (IFR) has shown its advantage in promoting government financial transparency by providing better access to financial information. However, IFR implementation in Indonesia remains voluntary due to the absence of regulation that enforces IFR application in government financial reporting. Drawing empirical evidence from IFR implementations in 122 local governments at municipality and city level in Java and Bali, this research aims to examine the effect of regional characteristics on IFR availability and accessibility. The result suggests that debt and financial dependency negatively affect the government IFR. Moreover, the result suggests IFR accessibility is a conditioning factor in the decision to provide IFR by local governments in Indonesia.
  Keywords: internet financial reporting; IFR; government financial report; Indonesia.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10076944
   
  
• To embrace cloud or not: a framework for investigating the determinants and benefits of government cloud computing  
  by Ammar Salamh Alrawahna, Yousef-Awwad Daraghmi, Amro Alzghoul , Farah Abudabaseh 
  Abstract: The adoption of cloud computing in the public sector presents a transformative opportunity for improving service delivery, operational efficiency, and digital governance — especially in developing countries. This study investigates the key determinants influencing CC adoption in Jordanian government agencies and examines how these factors contribute to enhancing e-government performance. Drawing on the technology-organisation-environment (TOE) framework, the study proposes a hierarchical reflective-formative model incorporating five critical dimensions: risk (comprising security, complexity, and vendor lock-in), trust (in both providers and technology), cost (cost-saving and perceived costliness), compatibility, and relative advantage. Data were collected from 131 IT professionals across Jordanian public institutions and analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that risk factors significantly and negatively affect adoption decisions, while trust and compatibility are strong positive predictors. Cost-related concerns were not statistically significant. Although relative advantage did not influence adoption directly, it had a meaningful impact on perceived net benefits in e-government performance. These results highlight that government agencies prioritise institutional trust and technological alignment over financial considerations. The study contributes to the theoretical discourse on digital innovation in the public sector and offers practical insights for policymakers seeking to accelerate digital transformation through cloud-enabled governance.
  Keywords: e-government performance; government cloud computing determinants; cloud computing adoption; Jordan.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10077077
   
  
• Transforming public administration in Africa using artificial intelligence: prospects, challenges, and open issues  
  by Douglas Kunda  
  Abstract: Effective and resilient public administration systems are essential for stimulating economic growth and reducing poverty across Africa. However, many African countries continue to face systemic challenges that hinder the modernisation of administrative processes, including inadequate digital infrastructure, limited access to electricity and high-speed internet, and the absence of comprehensive regulatory frameworks for artificial intelligence (AI). This paper investigates the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating AI into public administration in Africa. The results of the study reveal that while AI offers significant potential to automate routine procedures, improve decision-making, and foster citizen engagement, its adoption is constrained by factors such as insufficient datasets, limited technical expertise, political resistance and regulatory uncertainty. The study concludes by offering policy recommendations aimed at strengthening institutional capacity, developing clear governance frameworks for AI, and investing in digital infrastructure. The findings position the paper as a foundational contribution that highlights both the transformative potential and practical barriers of AI implementation in African public administration.
  Keywords: artificial intelligence; machine learning; public administration in Africa; public administration challenges in Africa; large language model; digital transformation.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10077079
   
  
• Designing sustainable e-government services: from theory to practice  
  by Christophe Gaie, S. Vasantha , Dharmasivam Vimala 
  Abstract: This study outlines a comprehensive conceptual framework for developing sustainable e-government services while addressing the technological, societal, operational, and ecological pillars. It underscores the fundamentals of digital governance and aims to integrate theoretical frameworks with practical implementation. The study mainly focuses on citizen engagement, institutional strength, and environmental factors. It evaluates the influence of technological and resource innovations, organisational diversification, and ecological sustainability on the opportunities presented for sustainable digital governance. This research utilises a qualitative, cross-border approach, particularly focusing on Estonia is recognised universally as the global leader in e-governance, with a completely digital government environment. By contrast, India is a large-scale, distinct, and developing democracy employing e-governance at all levels of the society. The comparative assessment of these two cases contributes to the fulfilment of the study’s objectives. It also analyses a variety of published materials, and operational documentation on Estonias X-tee and Indias DIGIT and IUDX systems.
  Keywords: e-government services; enablers; dimensions; models; theory; sustainability.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2027.10077131
   
  
• The importance of artificial intelligence in smart governance  
  by Sara Hosseinpour Chaijani, Milad Mohammadi 
  Abstract: In contemporary society, the integration of new technologies into governance practices has emerged as a critical concern, often referred to as Smart Governance. This concept represents a modernised approach to political processes, management, and public administration, heavily reliant on artificial intelligence technologies that serve as guiding principles for governmental strategies. The current scholarly investigation aims to articulate an optimal model for governance. The prevalence of corruption, opacity, lack of accountability, and unfair policies among leaders and authorities fosters societal distrust. To mitigate potential societal harm, a transition towards artificial intelligence-driven governance is advocated. By implementing artificial intelligence technologies, the likelihood of corruption is reduced, as AI operates within a framework devoid of loopholes that corrupt individuals exploit. Thus, shifting towards intelligent governance not only combats corruption but also serves as a barrier against the emergence and propagation of corrupt practices.
  Keywords: artificial intelligence; governance; smart governance; machine-learning; deep learning.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10071635
   
  
• Perceptions on the agency of media practitioners in e-governance in Nigeria  
  by Chimaobi D. Onwukwe, Roseline Ndimele, Emenike Ubani 
  Abstract: The study examined the perceptions of media practitioners on their agency in driving effective e-governance in Nigeria. The study drew on data collected via qualitative methodological approaches involving semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with participants drawn from members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, and Radio, Television and Theatre Workers Union in the five Southeastern states of Nigeria. The study observed that media practitioners perceive themselves as critical stakeholders in e-governance implementation. Varied ways in which they contribute to Nigeria's emerging e-governance include facilitating adoption by sourcing news and verifying information from government digital and electronic platforms. Some impediments include a lack of adequate government support which manifests in the challenge of adequate training, and suggested remedial actions include a public-private financing model. The study advances discussions on innovative ways of upscaling Nigeria's dwindling e-governance development index.
  Keywords: e-governance; media practitioners; perception; mass media; Nigeria.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10070902
   
  
• Investigating digitalisation level at selected private banks: towards a digitalisation guide  
  by Tibebe Beshah, Flagot Meshesha 
  Abstract: Globally, all sectors of the economy broadly use digital technologies. In connection to this, knowing the digitalisation level is helpful for companies in many ways. Today's enterprises also aim to gauge their level of digitalisation in order to maintain competitive advantage in an increasingly digital environment Thus, this study aimed to investigate the digitalisation level and propose digitalisation improvement guide at selected private banks. Knowing the level of digitalisation is helpful in identifying where potential improvements are needed and in setting strategic priorities. By leveraging digitisation, banks can offer improved customer service. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used. The digitalisation level of the selected private banks was determined based on certain dimensions. The result indicates that the digitalisation level of private banks is found to be at 'good' level with some variations from bank to bank. Finally, a digitalisation guide is proposed for future improvement.
  Keywords: digitalisation; digitalisation level dimension; private banks; Zemen Bank; NIB Bank; Abyssinia Bank; human capital; digital strategy.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10076092
   
  
• Towards enhanced citizen trust: the impact of e-Gov service quality on citizen satisfaction in the digital age  
  by Rizky Pramuditha, Didin Muhafidin, Asep Sumaryana, Elisa Susanti, Bhakti Nur Avianto 
  Abstract: This study aims to analyse the relationship between the quality of e-government services (e-GovQual), user satisfaction, and public trust. Quantitative research methods are used with a survey approach as material for statistical data analysis. As seen in the results, the quality of e-government services on the Smartdukcapil Pandeglang Regency website has been rated effective by service users. Information quality is the most important indicator of e-GovQual. User satisfaction with e-GovQual is also considered good by public service. Satisfaction with the overall electronic service is the most important indicator of user satisfaction. Public trust in is also considered good; competency is the most important indicator of citizen trust and e-GovQual has a positive effect on user satisfaction. This shows that good e-GovQual will increase user satisfaction. User satisfaction has a positive effect on citizen trust. This shows that user satisfaction with e-government services will increase public trust in the government.
  Keywords: e-GovQual; digital transformation; public participation; open government; service quality.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073333
   
  
• Election process using blockchain: an innovative strategy for transparent voting  
  by Mohit Kumar Arya, Nishant Mathur, Sanjeev Kumar, Yashwant Singh Bisht, Virendra Singh Rana 
  Abstract: To overcome the inadequacies of India's electronic voting systems with respect to security, auditability, reliability, and trust, this study proposes a blockchain-based solution that attempts to improve the glitches of electronic voting machine (EVM) tampering and data integrity issues. The proposed three-phase authentication (ThPA) model compares feature-wise with the existing models such as Follow My Vote, Agora Blockchain, and Polys. The design architecture of our proposed model is described in two stages. The first stage is voter validation through biometric data and storing information into a blockchain server, and the second stage has three-way voter authentication encryption, which is utilised for voting by using voter-registered data for identification and authorisation. The model characteristics found out that it used multilayer authentication, less energy consumption and is both highly secure and scalable. The proposed ThPA, can enhance the electoral process itself in India by enabling transparent and auditable elections.
  Keywords: blockchain technology; e-voter; Indian voting system; transparent voting; three-way authentication; unique identification number.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10073356
   
  
• A journey towards the multifaceted dimensions of emotional competence among late adolescents in Trichy District  
  by A. Vijay Krishnan, M. Daniel Solomon 
  Abstract: Emotional competence plays a crucial role in the psychological development of late adolescents, influencing their well-being and social functioning. This study explores the demographic factors influencing emotional competence among late adolescents in Trichy District, India, aiming to unravel determinants of emotional well-being in this critical life stage. Rank analysis revealed emotional competencies valued in late adolescence, including openness in asking for emotions, mindfulness when making decisions, and empathy, a fundamental stage followed by positive beliefs in empathy. The results indicate the importance of interpersonal relationships and the relative ranking of emotional skills among late adolescents. This study is useful in developing a better understanding of emotional competence and its application in the selected culture, thereby supplying effective practices for intervention and education. The outcomes reveal that enhancing emotional competencies among late adolescents requires a contextual approach because various factors influence individuals.
  Keywords: emotional competence; late adolescence; socio-demographic factors; interpersonal skills; emotional development; cultural context.
  DOI: 10.1504/EG.2026.10075164