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Understanding Algorithms

In: Advanced Digital Auditing

Author

Listed:
  • Pieter Oosterwijk

    (Netherlands Court of Audit)

  • Miranda Pirkovski

    (Netherlands Court of Audit)

  • Berrie Zielman

    (Netherlands Court of Audit)

Abstract

Algorithms account for an ever-larger component of the central government’s operations and actions, and hence perform an ever-important role in the delivery of public services to citizens and businesses. We analysed the activities and processes for which central government and its associated organisations use algorithms, classified these into categories, and identified the risks involved in the use of algorithms. In addition, we examined how central government and its associated organisations manage the operation and control the quality of algorithms. Most of the algorithms used by central government are relatively simple. They have a limited effect on private individuals, as it is only such relatively simple algorithms that take automatic decisions. Many of these decisions involve the automation of certain administrative activities, for example the automated sending of letters confirming the receipt of a communication. We did not find any fully self-learning algorithms in central government, only learning algorithms. We urge governments to evaluate algorithms on basis of a predetermined set of criteria and present a framework for such evaluations.

Suggested Citation

  • Pieter Oosterwijk & Miranda Pirkovski & Berrie Zielman, 2023. "Understanding Algorithms," Progress in IS, in: Egon Berghout & Rob Fijneman & Lennard Hendriks & Mona de Boer & Bert-Jan Butijn (ed.), Advanced Digital Auditing, pages 89-120, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:prochp:978-3-031-11089-4_5
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-11089-4_5
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