Digital Transformation in Governance: The Impact of e-governance on Public Administration and Transparency

Abstract

Digital transformation in governance has revolutionized public administration by leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, big data, and cloud computing to improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery. E-governance, a crucial component of this transformation, facilitates digital interactions between governments, citizens, businesses, and employees, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies while promoting accountability. Governments worldwide are adopting e-governance models to enhance service accessibility, streamline administrative processes, and combat corruption through open data initiatives and AI-driven decision-making.This study investigates the impact of e-governance on public administration efficiency and transparency, addressing three key research questions: (1) How does e-governance improve public administration efficiency? (2) What role does e-governance play in enhancing transparency? (3) What challenges and risks are associated with the adoption of e-governance? To answer these questions, the research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative content analysis of policy documents and quantitative survey data from policymakers and public administrators. A comparative case study analysis examines successful e-governance implementations in Estonia, India, and South Korea. Findings indicate that e-governance significantly improves administrative efficiency by automating workflows, reducing costs, and facilitating citizen engagement. Moreover, digital transparency initiatives such as blockchain-based procurement systems and open data policies contribute to reducing corruption and strengthening public trust. However, challenges such as the digital divide, cybersecurity risks, and bureaucratic resistance hinder full-scale adoption. The study concludes that AI, big data, and blockchain will shape the future of digital governance, but legal and ethical frameworks must be strengthened to ensure secure, inclusive, and citizen-centric governance models. Future research should explore the long-term effects of e-governance on democratic participation and compare adoption patterns between developed and developing nations.