Building a digital culture in public administration

Abstract

In today's technology-driven world, the digital transformation of public administration is of great significance. Digital technologies offer significant opportunities for public organizations to adapt to changing situations, enhance service delivery, and strengthen interactions with citizens. For public organizations to harness all these advantages and succeed in the digital transformation process, a robust digital infrastructure and effective use of technology are of the utmost importance. However, digital transformation is not limited to technological changes alone; it also involves radical changes in an organization's structure, processes, work methods, and culture. Among these, cultural change is the most difficult part for public organizations, but it plays a critical role in the success and sustainability of digital transformation. This study examines the cultural pitfalls that hinder the building of a digital culture in public administration and proposes strategies to overcome these obstacles. Drawing on literature from the fields of organizational culture, public administration, and digital transformation, the study identifies key cultural pitfalls, including strict rule-based processes, maintaining the status quo, hierarchical structures, red tape, diffusion of responsibility, and the use of bureaucratic jargon. To overcome these obstacles, the study proposes strategies, such as strong leadership, training programs to enhance digital skills, creating a supportive organizational environment, promoting the use of common technical language, and encouraging risk-taking. By addressing these cultural challenges, public organizations can enhance their digital maturity and effectively navigate the complexities of digital transformation. © 2025 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.