Evaluating Smart Governance Maturity Indicators in Developing Countries
Keywords:
Smart governance, digital maturity, e-government, citizen participation, developing countriesAbstract
Objective: This study aims to identify and analyze the key indicators of smart governance maturity in developing countries through a systematic review and qualitative content analysis.
Methods and Materials: This research employed a qualitative design based on a systematic literature review. Data were collected from major international databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. A total of 12 scholarly articles directly related to smart governance and maturity assessment in developing countries were selected based on conceptual relevance and theoretical saturation. Thematic analysis was performed using NVivo 14 software to extract main themes, subthemes, and open codes.
Findings: Thematic analysis revealed three main dimensions of smart governance maturity: (1) technological infrastructure and capability, including digital network development, data security, and innovation; (2) institutional and managerial capacity, including transformative leadership, digital skills, transparency, and performance evaluation systems; and (3) citizen participation and engagement, including open data, digital empowerment, and e-participation. The interaction of these three dimensions was found to be essential for achieving sustainable maturity in smart governance.
Conclusion: The results indicate that developing countries need integrated policy frameworks, continuous investment in technological infrastructure, and promotion of digital civic participation to advance their smart governance maturity. The study provides a conceptual framework to support strategic planning and assessment of digital transformation in public governance.
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References
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