Digital State at the Leading Edge

The impact of information technology (IT) on government in the last five years has been profound. Using the governments of Canada and Ontario (both recognized as international leaders in the use of IT) as case studies, Digital State at the Leading Edge is the first attempt to take a comprehensive view of the influence of IT on the whole of government, including areas such as political campaigning, public consultation, service delivery, knowledge management, and procurement.

Exploring the concepts of channel choice, procurement market analysis, organizational integration, and digital leadership, this study looks at the inter-relationships among various aspects of the application of IT to government and politics. The authors seek to understand how IT is transforming government and what the nature of that transformation is. In the process, they offer an explanation of Canadas relative success, and conclude with practical advice to politicians and public servants about how to manage IT in government more effectively. Based on original research undertaken over the last five years, the findings of this innovative study will be of particular interest to those studying or working in the fields of public administration, political science, and information technology.