Linking e-government development and quality of governance to trust in government: evidence from OECD member countries

Abstract

Purpose The association between e-government and trust in government has been extensively examined, even though empirical works have returned conflicting conclusions about this association. This study aims to revisit the relationship between e-government and trust in government using macrolevel data from Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member countries. It also addresses whether or not e-government should contribute to the quality of governance to improve trust in government. Design/methodology/approach Archival data from 36 OECD members over five years (2012–2015) were used to achieve the study objectives. Findings Results indicate that e-government does not directly affect trust in government, although there is an indirect association. Originality/value This implies that e-government systems will not significantly impact trust in government unless they contribute to the quality of governance that offers a basis for granting trust in government. Accordingly, value creation, including trust, should be considered during the design of e-government systems to achieve the desired outcomes.