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Investigating the impact of digital transformation in the public sector: A case study of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), South Africa

Author

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  • Lindelwa Komna

    (MANCOSA)

  • Sabelo Mpungose

    (MANCOSA)

Abstract

This study intends to assess the impact of digital transformation on public sector service delivery, concentrating on the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) in South Africa. The report examines critical obstacles obstructing the effective execution of digital transformation programs, including as antiquated infrastructure, procurement inefficiencies, and opposition to change. It also analyses the advantages of agile approaches in improving flexibility, responsiveness, and collaboration in digital projects. We utilised a qualitative study methodology, conducting semi-structured interviews with SITA personnel and analysing pertinent organisational documents. The dataset comprised interviews with personnel from several departments, together with performance and service delivery reports spanning from 2015 to 2022. The study's principal findings indicate that (i) agile methodologies markedly enhance the adaptability and efficiency of digital transformation initiatives; (ii) robust data governance and sharing practices promote transparency and accountability, albeit encountering obstacles such as data silos and inconsistent quality; and (iii) addressing challenges such as digital hesitancy and leadership deficiencies is crucial for cultivating a culture that encourages innovation and continuous improvement. The study ultimately offers strategic recommendations for tackling these difficulties and improving digital transformation initiatives inside SITA.

Suggested Citation

  • Lindelwa Komna & Sabelo Mpungose, 2024. "Investigating the impact of digital transformation in the public sector: A case study of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), South Africa," International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy (2687-2293), Bussecon International Academy, vol. 6(4), pages 218-234, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:adi:ijbess:v:6:y:2024:i:4:p:218-234
    DOI: 10.36096/ijbes.v6i4.610
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nathalie Haug & Sorin Dan & Ines Mergel, 2024. "Digitally-induced change in the public sector: a systematic review and research agenda," Public Management Review, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 26(7), pages 1963-1987, July.
    2. Linn Slettum Bjerke-Busch & Arild Aspelund, 2021. "Identifying Barriers for Digital Transformation in the Public Sector," Management for Professionals, in: Daniel R. A. Schallmo & Joseph Tidd (ed.), Digitalization, edition 1, pages 277-290, Springer.
    3. Abraham, Rene & Schneider, Johannes & vom Brocke, Jan, 2019. "Data governance: A conceptual framework, structured review, and research agenda," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 49(C), pages 424-438.
    4. Sultan, Nabil, 2013. "Cloud computing: A democratizing force?," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 33(5), pages 810-815.
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