E-governance LIS 590 Task 2 Jessica Yonzon
What is e-governance? Backus (2001): The application of electronic means in (1) the interaction between government and citizens and government and businesses, as well as (2) in internal government operations to simplify and improve democratic, government and business aspects of Governance
The E-governance Institute, Rutgers University: The principles of e-governance are: Build services around citizens' choices Make government more accessible Facilitate social inclusion Provide information responsibly Use government resources effectively and efficiently saving taxpayers money
How does it promote UL? People have easy/better access to government information/services.
Government website as a tool for e-governance Desirable characteristics (Backus, 2001): Accessible Transparent in providing relevant government information (policies, news, regulations, data, etc.) Interactive – exchange of information/ communication ( s, search engines, downloadable forms/documents, etc.) Delivery of products and services – online transactions like filing taxes, extending/renewing licenses, visas, passports, etc., and online voting In the future: All services at one virtual counter
An example of a government site with each of the characteristics - City of Westminster, London
Accessibility: essoptions.cfm - different access options / languages essoptions.cfm Mobile alerts -
Relevant Information: Press Office ddemocracy/councils/pressoffice/index.cfm ddemocracy/councils/pressoffice/index.cfm Online publications Going Green Many more!
Interactive features: Contact information - t_council.cfm t_council.cfm Search Engine Downloadable forms -
Online services: Report a problem Contact the council MyWestminster -
References: Backus, M. (2001) E-governance and developing countries. IICD (International Institute for Communication and Development) Research Brief. The E-governance Institute: site/index.html site/index.html