Understanding the role of transparency, participation, and collaboration for achieving open digital government goals in Oman

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to understand the roles of transparency, participation and collaboration in pursuit of achieving open digital government (OPG) goals in Oman. The study explores the extent to which these interactive digital apps and other initiatives can enhance digital transparency, collaboration and public participation to achieve ODG goals. Design/methodology/approach This study has used triangulation of qualitative method by selecting semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews and public user reviews of ODG apps. Findings This research found that collaboration among institutions and transparency of actions and operations besides citizens’ participation in ODG enhance the trust to use ODG services. Therefore, a research framework is devised for synthesizing the significance of public participation and transparency where the aim is to facilitate collaboration among institutions with the purpose to achieve ODG goals. Such collaboration is highly useful for enhancing the ODG public value chain as well as achieving the ODG goals. Research limitations/implications This study has recommended practical implications for public institutions and Information technology developers to work collaboratively with the purpose to address the issues of interactivity and compatibility in ODG apps that can enhance public participation and improve the public value chain. Originality/value This study has used the institutional theoretical support to build a research framework that can extend the understanding that what factors can play role to achieve ODG goals.