The Social Pulse of SMART Government: Citizens at the Heart of Digital Governance
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54489/ijbas.v5i1.563Keywords:
Smart government, Digital governance, Citizen centricity, Citizen engagement, Social influence, Openness.Abstract
Smart government represents an emerging paradigm in public administration where digital technologies, integrated data ecosystems, and networked systems support more responsive, transparent, and citizen-focused governance. As governments adopt SMART initiatives, the social dimension becomes a central driver of success, shaping how citizens perceive, engage with, and ultimately accept technological transformation. This article examines the social pulse of smart government through four key variables: citizen centricity, citizen engagement, social influence, and openness. These interconnected variables collectively determine how effectively digital governance initiatives align with societal needs and expectations. The analysis highlights that technological advancement alone cannot ensure successful transformation; rather, meaningful progress depends on empowering citizens, fostering inclusivity, and promoting societal trust in digital public services. The study concludes that strengthening the social foundations of smart governance is essential for achieving sustainable modernization, enhancing public value, and enabling the transition toward socially attuned smart cities.
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