Open, smart and sustainable governments

Abstract

Public administrations have been undergoing a continuous process of transformation for years. Most of it falls under the labels of 'modernization' or 'administrative modernization,' where they incorporate telematic processes, promote greater openness in government action (open governments), or propose new initiatives under the term 'smart' or 'intelligent.' Although the word 'efficient' is often used interchangeably with 'intelligent,' it is not entirely accurate. Just as an intelligent person may not necessarily be kind, not everything intelligent needs to be efficient, and not everything intelligent has to be sustainable.

To this array of changes, we must add the spectacular global effect of sustainability and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a result of the strong supply and demand for the consumption of resources and services.

This article analyzes the ongoing transformation of governments in their different phases, finally focusing on ten elements (by way of example) that could help unlock the true transformation of administrations. It is within our power to assess and address some of these challenges, which are not necessarily technological but are inherent to the excessive complexity that seems to surround the public sphere's environment.