Challenges of e-government implementation in health sector: a step toward validating a conceptual framework

Abstract

PurposeThe importance of e-government projects has been realized in the developed as well as in the developing countries of the world. The successful implementation of e-government projects is a challenging task. Public sector organizations are facing different sorts of challenges while executing e-government initiatives. The purpose of this paper is to explore issues/challenges related to e-government project implementation.Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to understand the challenges of the e-government project, as mentioned in past research. The findings of this SLR helped in developing a proposed framework for e-government challenges. The proposed framework encompasses challenges and issues related to four main aspects such as technological, organizational, project management and enabling environment. These aspects need to be further explained for their remedial measures. For this purpose, an exploratory case study was conducted. The unit of analysis was one of the e-government projects of the ministry of IT. The interviews of the senior and middle management involved in the implementation of this project were conducted and transcribed.FindingsThe case study findings endorse a framework proposed. The findings of this research reflect the importance of creating a shared vision, adequate funding and good project management practices as an essential aspect of e-government implementation. Further, the importance of user-related issues such as involvement, capacity building and technical skills was also found critical in successfully executing and sustaining such initiatives in the organization. Further study findings provide necessary guidance for the senior management, which may help to develop effective strategies for the e-government projects in the organization.Originality/valueThe current study focused on developing a better understanding of the challenges commonly faced by organizations during e-government adoption and implementation related to organizational, project management, enabling environment and technological aspects.