e-Government

Electronic government, or e-government, may be defined as the use of web-based applications to enhance access to public services and deliver them more efficiently. There are varying definitions of e-government, but all revolve around the use of the Internet to deliver information and services, streamline bureaucratic procedures, and enhance citizen input and participation. Web 2.0, which allows interactive transactions between the state and citizens rather than just the passive reception of information, has facilitated this process considerably. When done well, e-government enhances transparency and accountability.

[Page 304]This entry explores e-government in several steps. It opens with an overview of the definition, forms, and consequences of e-government. Second, it turns to the major theories of e-government. The third part focuses on the relations between e-government and digital ...