Exploring Metaverse Innovations in Public Administration: A Focus on Human Resource Management

The metaverse, an expansive virtual shared space, is revolutionizing various sectors, including Public Administration (PA). This mini-review systematically explores the current initiatives and practices related to the metaverse in PA, with a particular focus on human resource management (HRM). By leveraging immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), public institutions can enhance employee engagement, streamline recruitment and onboarding processes, and provide more effective training and performance management. Despite the promising potential, the integration of these technologies also presents significant challenges, including legal, regulatory, and ethical issues. A comprehensive literature search using scientific databases identified 24 key articles that discuss the implications of the metaverse for public sector HRM. The findings indicate that while the metaverse can transform HRM practices by offering more engaging and efficient processes, successful implementation requires addressing several hurdles. Key themes include the necessity for robust governance frameworks, the development of sustainable digital transformation practices, and the need for adaptive leadership styles in virtual environments. This chapter contributes to the ongoing discourse on digital transformation in the public sector by highlighting both the opportunities and challenges of integrating metaverse technologies into HRM. It provides actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners and suggests directions for future research, including empirical studies to assess the long-term impacts and comparative analyses across different contexts. The study underscores the importance of continued innovation and ethical considerations to unlock the full potential of the metaverse in enhancing public service delivery and workforce management.