Government Efficiency Research Articles

State Effectiveness at Managing the Fourth Industrial Revolution and Innovation in Vietnam

This article examines state effectiveness in the context of globalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution with Vietnam as its case study. Through mixed methods including surveys with public servants, it evaluates perceptions of state effectiveness at managing resources, promoting sustainable development, and facilitating social participation in governance. Additionally, it explores how government policies and management systems are adapting to modern challenges, including digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and socioeconomic changes. Surveys focused on several factors—human resources, businesses, digital transformation, the environment, and social welfare. Data was collected from 481 public servants at different levels of government, and analyzed using SPSS 20 software to identify correlations and impacts. My results reveal that human resources, businesses, digital transformation, and environmental factors significantly contribute to perceptions of state performance, driving improvements in governance efficiency and sustainable development. Conversely, social welfare was found to have an insignificant effect. While economic and environmental considerations are crucial, more research is needed to explore the indirect impacts of social welfare on governance. Based on these results, the paper offers several recommendations for improving government management, emphasizing the need for advancing digital transformation, enhancing human resource capacity, supporting businesses, and strengthening environmental policies to ensure long-term sustainable development and effective state performance.

Business environment and its impact on high-quality economic development: A configurational analysis of enhancement pathways.

The nexus between the business environment and high-quality economic development is pivotal for fostering sustainable growth. This study delves into their interrelationship, recognizing its profound practical significance. We have developed a comprehensive index system to evaluate high-quality economic development, encompassing four key dimensions: green development quality, robust economic growth, innovation dynamics, and equitable societal benefits. Concurrently, a business environment index system has been constructed, capturing the nuances of government functionality, social context, and market dynamics. Employing system theory and a configurational approach, this research utilizes the fsQCA method to decode the intricate mechanisms, dynamic pathways, and synergistic interactions among diverse elements within the business environment that influence high-quality economic development. The empirical findings underscore the substantial impact of the business environment on high-quality economic development, highlighting two primary catalyst pathways: the "Rule of Law-Government Efficiency" trajectory and the "Market-Led-Credit Environment" route. These pathways reveal that government efficiency, credit accessibility, legal frameworks, market fairness, and openness are instrumental in driving high-quality economic development. Conversely, inefficiencies in the market mechanism and governmental roles often result in suboptimal development trajectories. The study advocates for policy formulations that recognize and leverage regional distinctiveness, optimizing local resources and strengths to spur high-quality economic development tailored to each region's unique context.

Analyzing the Dynamic Efficiency and Critical Factors of the Regional Innovation System: A Case Study of Korea

The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether the dynamic efficiency of Regional Innovation Systems (RISs) across 16 provinces in Korea decline, and to analyze which determinant factors reduce this efficiency. Thus, the goal is to derive policy implications from these research findings in order to enhance the efficiency of 16 RISs. The former method used Window Data Envelopment Analysis with a unique focus on both quantitative and qualitative output measures, including the fee per technology transfer. The findings revealed a gradual decline in RIS efficiency over the study period, with Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Incheon consistently outperforming other regions. The latter method used a panel analysis with a focus on the role of the R&D investment of local government and regional R&D personnel, and technology commercialization ecosystems. The study reveals that while national R&D investment relative to regional GDP positively impacts efficiency, local government R&D funding—especially when aligned with central policies—tends to reduce efficiency. Also, the proportion of R&D personnel to total employment showed a negative effect on RIS efficiency, and regions with well-developed technology commercialization infrastructures display higher RIS efficiency. Our findings suggest the establishment of Government Efficiency Committee to enhance RIS efficiency, such as reducing the R&D investment of local government, restructuring regional R&D personnel to prevent overlap, and strengthening the technology commercialization infrastructure. These recommendations aim to support region-led innovation growth and foster a national innovation landscape.

Multi-party Systems and Parliamentary Thresholds: The Case of Indonesia’s Presidential System with Comparisons to Germany and Taiwan

This study investigates the necessity of parliamentary thresholds in multi-party and presidential systems, with a particular focus on Indonesia. It examines the rationale behind these thresholds and the factors that should determine the optimal threshold within Indonesia's unique political landscape. Employing a qualitative approach and a comprehensive literature review, the study utilizes Mainwaring's framework, which highlights the challenges posed by the combination of a multi-party system and presidentialism, and advocates for reducing the number of parties through appropriate thresholds. The findings suggest that Indonesia's combination of a presidential system and multi-party structure can lead to instability due to potential legislative gridlock. To enhance government efficiency, the study recommends maintaining or raising the current 4% parliamentary threshold and opposes calls to lower it, as this could lead to further fragmentation and inefficiency. Furthermore, the study proposes simplifying the structure of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) into three factions: pro-government, opposition, and independent. By drawing comparisons with Germany and Taiwan’s 5% thresholds and mixed-member proportional representation systems, the study suggests that similar electoral reforms in Indonesia could minimize wasted votes, improve proportional representation, and foster a more stable governance structure.

SUSTAINABLE WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES, INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IMPLEMENTATION, AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Water resource management is essential for societal advancement, as water supports various human activities, including domestic, agricultural, industrial, and recreational uses. In Nigeria, the challenges of managing water resources are exacerbated by uneven distribution, population growth, and inadequate infrastructure. Despite Nigeria's significant renewable freshwater resources, only 69% of the population has access to basic water services, highlighting the nation's inefficiencies in water governance. The Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) approach offers a framework to address these challenges by promoting sustainable water use, stakeholder involvement, and the protection of ecosystems. However, Nigeria's implementation of IWRM faces hurdles, such as weak governance, conflicting institutional interests, and insufficient stakeholder engagement. This study examines the historical and current state of water resource management in Nigeria, its impact on national development, and the potential benefits of adopting IWRM. It explores lessons learned from global IWRM practices and provides recommendations for improving water governance to achieve the SDGs, particularly SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation) and SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities). Addressing these challenges will require stronger institutional frameworks, cost recovery mechanisms, and the integration of local insights with international best practices.

Digital Transformation in Public Administration and Data-Driven Decision-Making: A Review of Turkana County Government

Digital transformation is increasingly becoming a focal point for organizations and governments worldwide, including Kenya. In Kenya, the 2010 Constitution introduced devolution, decentralizing governance, enabling county-level implementation of government programs, and extending governance to the grassroots. Among the functions devolved to counties is Early Childhood Development and Education (Pre-primary education), aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability in governance. Turkana County, inhabited primarily by the Turkana people with a history of nomadic pastoralism, views Pre-primary education as crucial for initiating academic life. Embracing digital transformation in Pre-primary education implementation represents a significant shift. The study focused on Turkana County Government’s strategies for digital transformation in Pre-primary education and identified key objectives: Assessing digital inclusion in public administration in Turkana County; recommending practical implementation of two systems: Turkana Early Childhood Development Education Management Information System and Continuous Database Updating system; and establishing sustainability measures for data-driven decision-making. The study employed a descriptive research design involving observation and desktop review of county online platforms and libraries. Information gathered affirmed the status of digital transformation in Pre-primary education and guided recommendations. Turkana County Government has implemented two digital systems: Turkana Early Childhood Development and Education Management Information System (a website) and Continuous Database Updating System (Data entry and updating system). The website hosts programs and data related to pre-primary education management, including teacher and learner information, infrastructure development, feeding programs, policy updates, and reports on supervision and evaluation of teachers. Recommendations for successful digital transformation included investing in community engagement for program sustainability, strengthening administrative structures, and enhancing digital technology in Pre-primary education. These measures aim to ensure efficient and effective management of Pre-primary education programs. In conclusion, the Turkana County Government’s adoption of the two digital systems marks a significant step towards modernizing Pre-primary education management. By following the study’s recommendations, Turkana County can achieve enhanced governance and educational outcomes through digital transformation, thereby serving as a model for similar initiatives across Kenya’s counties.

From union clout to corporate couture: Unveiling the impact of trade unions on corporate social responsibility.

Trade unions and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are important institutional mechanisms through which corporations undertake responsibility for their for-profit as well as not-for-profit actions. This study explores the roles of trade unions, management, and shareholders in influencing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) controversies and CSR reporting. Drawing on instrumental stakeholder theory, we argue that while management and shareholders typically focus on governance, profitability, and operational efficiency, trade unions act as critical relational stakeholders advocating for employee welfare and social sustainability. Using a sample of 416 firms over a period of 10 years, our findings reveal that trade unions significantly reduce ESG controversies and enhance CSR reporting by advocating for employee welfare and social sustainability. In contrast, management significantly impacts CSR reporting but notably does not influence ESG controversies. Lastly, shareholders, who are important for governance and profitability, exhibit minimal impact on both ESG controversies and CSR reporting.

The Impact Of Revolution 5.0 on Digital Government and Public Service Efficiency

This study explores the impact of Revolution 5.0 on public service efficiency in the context of digital governance. The primary aim of the research is to assess how advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are influencing the performance and efficiency of government services. This study uses a quantitative research approach, employing a descriptive and explanatory design to describe the phenomenon and analyze the relationship between Revolution 5.0 technologies (independent variable) and public service efficiency (dependent variable). Data were collected through a survey administered to 250 respondents, including government employees, State Civil Apparatus (ASN), and the public, using a structured questionnaire with Likert scale items. The findings indicate that the integration of digital technologies significantly enhances administrative efficiency, reduces processing time, and improves public satisfaction with government services. The study contributes valuable insights into the ongoing digital transformation in public administration and provides recommendations for improving digital literacy among civil servants to further optimize service delivery.

OECD COUNTRIES' EXPERIENCE IN TRANSFORMATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY SYSTEMS

The article discusses the growing importance of digital transformation in public administration, with a focus on the experiences of various countries like South Korea, the U.S., and Sweden. It examines how governments worldwide are leveraging new technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and mobile applications to enhance public service delivery. Key objectives include improving efficiency, transparency, and citizen satisfaction while fostering stronger government-citizen interactions. The article also touches on challenges faced during the digital transformation, such as data protection, coordination, and legal frameworks. The research highlights successful strategies in digital governance, such as South Korea’s leadership in e-government, which enabled it to excel in global rankings. It underscores the significance of strong leadership and comprehensive strategies, including the use of a "control room" to manage inter-departmental coordination. Kazakhstan, which has adopted a new Concept of the development of civil service for 2024-2029, is seeking to apply these international best practices to develop proactive, citizen-centered public services and enhance government efficiency through digitalization.

Factors Affecting the Implementation of the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) in Ghana

ABSTRACT This study explores factors influencing IPSAS implementation in Ghana. Data were collected from 227 public sector professionals using surveys and interviews, analyzed with a generalized least squares model. Key determinants include implementation cost, political support, management information systems, staff training and recruitment, institutional commitment, accountability, and sociological factors. Recommendations emphasize government support via moral suasion and detailed examination of influencing factors for effective public sector accounting reform. The study provides valuable insights for stakeholders, supporting strategic planning, policy-making, and capacity-building to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance, aiding public financial management and attracting informed foreign investment decisions.

Sustainable Skill Development in Pakistan: Bridging Gaps in Vocational and Technical Education Policy – A Systematic Literature Review

Skill development is pivotal to Pakistan’s economic and social transformation, addressing human capital challenges. This systematic literature review synthesizes findings from 38 peer-reviewed studies conducted between 2015 and 2024 to evaluate Pakistan’s existing policies and practices. Findings reveal myriad barriers in Pakistan’s vocational education ecosystem, including outdated curricula, weak industry-academia collaboration, and governance inefficiencies, disproportionately affecting vulnerable rural populations. Programs like the National Skills Strategy (NSS) and Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF) aim to align education with labor market demands, but financial constraints and governance inefficiencies hinder implementation. Due to infrastructural inadequacies, digital literacy and entrepreneurial education programs face implementation challenges. The study advocates for experiential learning modalities and inclusive policies to dismantle socio-cultural barriers. Comparisons with global models such as Germany’s dual education system and Singapore’s SkillsFuture initiative illustrate opportunities to modernize Pakistan’s TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) framework. Policy recommendations emphasize the need for strategic investments in digital infrastructure to modernize curricula, foster industry partnerships, and integrate cutting-edge technologies aligning TVET with Industry 4.0, fostering public-private partnerships, and promoting gender-inclusive strategies to enhance workforce readiness and economic competitiveness. These reforms align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 8, offering a pathway for Pakistan to enhance workforce readiness, foster economic competitiveness, and promote equitable socioeconomic development.

How does the theory of government decentralization support the reform system of province directly manages counties (PDMC) in China?

This study investigates how the theory of government decentralization underpins the reform of the Province Directly Manages Counties (PDMC) system in China, addressing its challenges and proposing rational solutions. The research aims to explore the theoretical basis of PDMC reform to enhance local governance efficiency and optimize intergovernmental relations. The study employs a qualitative methodology, combining theoretical analysis with a review of relevant policy documents and case studies from provinces such as Zhejiang. The research reveals that while the PDMC reform has improved fiscal and administrative efficiency, it faces significant challenges, including mismatches between fiscal and routine powers, excessive management scope at the provincial level, and unclear intergovernmental responsibilities. By integrating the theory of government decentralization, PDMC reform can achieve better alignment of powers and responsibilities, fostering local autonomy and governance capabilities. The findings offer actionable insights for policymakers to refine the PDMC system, balance intergovernmental relations, and support sustainable local economic and social development.

Government influence on national competitiveness (evidence from the COVID era)

Purpose This paper aims to examine how government policy and institutions affect national competitiveness. A combined microeconomic and institutionalist model of competitiveness is applied. This structure is suitable for incorporating factors considered by global competitiveness rankings. The paper proposes that there are various possible government policy “configurations” leading to similar competitiveness outcomes, but different resilience outcomes during a crisis. Design/methodology/approach Using the Institute for Management Development competitiveness rankings, covering 62 countries, between 2010 and 2019 the authors first build clusters based on observed “government policy configurations”. These clusters show an interpretable pattern: except for a few outliers, individual clusters contain countries that are economically and culturally similar. Then the authors examine how different clusters, with similar overall competitiveness scores, have performed in 2020–2021 during the COVID pandemic. Findings The analysis shows that government efficiency is correlated with other factors of overall competitiveness. It shows that while similar levels of competitiveness are possible with different government “configurations”, it provides evidence that more welfare-oriented government “configurations” during the crisis led to a higher resilience of national competitiveness. Originality/value The paper connects an institutionalist and microeconomic view of competitiveness in a unique model and embeds government policy in this structure. It shows that a similar level of competitiveness is possible through different government policy “configurations” and exploits the COVID shock to analyse resilience of these “configurations”.

How Can Law and Policy Reform Shape Human Resource Strategies in Indonesian State Universities Post-Law No. 20 of 2023?

Dialectics always arise with the introduction of new policies in laws, and Law No. 20 of 2023 concerning State Civil Servants is no exception. The latest provision in Chapter XIII, Article 65(1), prohibits Personnel Supervisory Officials from appointing Non-Civil Servants to fill civil servant positions, sparking debates on its implications for human resource (HR) management in Indonesian state universities. This study aims to evaluate HR management strategies in state universities, identify obstacles in implementing the law, and propose solutions to optimize its adoption. The research adopts a qualitative method with an analytical descriptive approach. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with HR managers from several public universities in Central Java, supported by a review of relevant documents. The study reveals that while some universities have begun to adopt the provisions of the law, they still face significant challenges, including a lack of professional training and development, complex bureaucratic processes, and budget constraints. Adjusting organizational structures and enhancing staff competencies remain major hurdles. The novelty of this research lies in its focus on the intersection of legal reform and HR strategies in higher education. The urgency is underscored by the immediate need to address inefficiencies and adapt to the law’s mandates. This study contributes by offering actionable recommendations, including increased training and awareness campaigns, simplifying bureaucracy, and expanding budgets for HR development. These insights are essential for policymakers and university administrators to ensure the efficient implementation of Law No. 20 of 2023, ultimately enhancing governance and operational efficiency in Indonesian state universities.

TAX GAP AND AN ASSESSMENT OF FACTORS AFFECTING IT IN LATVIA

Purpose and aim of the study: The purpose of the study is to analyse the theoretical aspects of the tax gap and to investigate its extent in Latvia, emphasizing the main factors affecting the tax gap concerning the shadow economy index.Design / Methodology / Approach: The research employed the following methods: descriptive and graphic, statistical analysis, the comparison method, logical construction, and correlation analysis.Main Findings: The results of the study showed that there was a relationship between the tax gap and the shadow economy because as the undeclared or unpaid income to the state budget (the element forming the tax gap) increases, the indicator of the shadow economy index increases. Of the factors affecting the tax gap, the quality of regulation, government efficiency, tax revenue, and gross domestic product per capita have a greater impact on it. It is important to improve tax administration procedures by promoting cooperation with taxpayers to reduce the tax gap.Originality: The research has carried out a scientific discussion regarding components of the tax gap, calculation methods influencing factors, and performed a mutual analysis of Latvian tax gap-related indicators to identify the main causes.Implications: Due to the tax gap, the budget does not receive revenues that could be directed to other sectors of the economy and creates competition distortions between honest and dishonest taxpayers, so it is important to study the factors influencing it and look for ways to reduce it.

Data Governance and Distribution of Biobank: A Case from a Chinese Cancer Hospital.

Objectives: To facilitate the regionalization, specialization, and digitization of biobanks, three issues regarding data collection and application must be addressed (1) integration and distribution of data governance, (2) efficiency and efficacy of data governance, and (3) sustainability of data governance. Methods: We collaborated with stakeholders to identify priorities and assess infrastructure needs through the continuous evaluation and analysis of projects. We developed data management solutions, catalogs, and data models to optimize and support data collection, distribution, and application. Furthermore, ontologies were used to facilitate data integration from multiple sources, and Minimum Information About BIobank Data Sharing (MIABIS) was defined as accessible to all patients. To enhance data integrity, we conducted retrospective and prospective follow-up studies. Results: We completed infrastructure upgrades to match technical solutions and research demands. An information management software with six primary functional divisions was developed for data governance. We optimized the database structure and changed the biospecimen accumulation model from biospecimen-based to patient-centered and service-oriented. Subsequently, we specified 85 attributes of MIABIS to describe the biobank contents. A dual-pillar approach was adopted to expand the biobank's data in collaboration with other institutions, and MIABIS served as a bridge for both vertical and horizontal networks. From 2003 to 2021, we collected a total of 156,997 patient biospecimens/data from 20 cancer types, matching 53,113 cases from follow-up surveys. In addition, we supplied more than 40,000 biospecimens/data points for above 300 scientific research projects. Conclusions: An appropriate information platform for a biobank is fundamental to data collection, distribution, and application, particularly in the context of data-intensive research. We implemented a standardized scientific data structure to fulfill the research requirements. The sustainable development of a biobank depends on a scientific, standardized, and service-oriented data governance approach, along with the efficient utilization of emerging technologies.

The Impact Of Digital Government On The Modernization Of The State: Systematic Review

This article aims to analyze the implementation of the Digital Government in Peru within the framework of the State Modernization Policy. For this purpose, a systematic review was used as the main analysis methodology. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established based on the research question "What is the current level of implementation of the Digital Government in Peru within the framework of the State Modernization Policy?". The results of this systematic review reveal trends in the modernization of the State, highlighting progress in the implementation of digital technologies to increase the efficiency of government and the provision of citizen services. In conclusion, this analysis provides an overview of the state of Digital Government in Peru. Likewise, it allows us to identify areas of opportunity and improvement in the effective modernization of the State through digital technologies, to guarantee more efficient management focused on the well-being of citizens.

Governance and Dynamic Efficiency with Network Structure in the Brazilian Natural Gas Utilities

The objective of this work is to analyze the relevance of governance (corporate and ownership concentration) for the divisional inter-temporal dynamic efficiency in piped natural gas utilities in Brazil. The main innovative contribution of this work is the application of inter-temporal (dynamic) efficiency analysis with network structure in the first stage, in this case, the ‘Dynamic DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis) with network structure: A slacks-based–DNSBM (Dynamic Network Slacks-Based Measure)’, in which two divisional interactions δok∗ (technical–operational and economic–financial division) between τot∗ periods and divisional ρokt∗ periods are reflected in the overall efficiency scores θo∗, representing an approach not yet explored by the previous literature on the sector and subject investigated. The database used corresponds to 21 Brazilian natural gas utilities in the form of a balanced data panel, which were collected for the period 2014–2019. The second stage (explanatory) was estimated through the panel with random effects to identify the relationship between governance and efficiency, considering certain context factors. The results show that the average general efficiency was 74.96%, resulting from the interactions between the average efficiency rates of 72.21% of the technical–operational division and 82.03% of the economic–financial division, and suggest that the corporate governance index and ownership (public or private) are not relevant factors for the efficiency results studied.

The Social-Ecological System Framework of Urban Wetlands: The Role of Collective Management at Local Level

The social-ecological system of wetlands supports biodiversity and enhances the mental well-being of urban inhabitants. However, wetlands in Latin America face pressures from urban expansion, agriculture, governance conflicts, and poorly enforced regulations driven by economic activities, resulting in biodiversity loss and diminished ecosystem services. This study applies the social-ecological system framework to identify ecosystem services and evaluate factors influencing collective actions and governance effectiveness for urban and peri-urban wetlands. The case study is based in Cali, Colombia, using 33 semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and field visits. We find that facilitators such as leadership, networking, social capital, and community-based rules drive positive outcomes, enhancing ecosystem services. In contrast, barriers to collective action in wetland governance include low resource dependence, diverse actors, exclusion of groups, large resource size, pollution, conflicts, and property-rights issues, leading to ecosystem degradation. Additionally, our research shows how ecosystem services are influenced by environmental conflicts, property-rights systems, and community-led initiatives. Collaboration between communities and public agencies is crucial, enhancing local governance efficiency and ecosystem services.

Exploration of International Climate Governance Mechanisms from the Perspective of Social Dialogue

The global climate issue has become increasingly severe, and relying solely on a single entity for governance is insufficient to achieve ideal outcomes. Various international organizations are on the rise, and diversification and decentralization have become inevitable results in the evolution of international climate governance mechanisms. Social dialogue, as a mechanism involving multiple stakeholders, information sharing, and collaborative decision-making, can effectively address the collective action dilemma in climate governance. Therefore, this paper explores and analyzes the evolution of international climate mechanisms and the impact of diversified governance models through the lens of social dialogue. From this perspective, multiple stakeholders enhance democratic participation in international climate governance, which, to some extent, increases governance motivation. However, it also inevitably leads to a fragmented and decentralized global climate governance mechanism, characterized by a lack of international leadership and low governance efficiency. To address this issue and advance the climate governance process, it is necessary to acknowledge that a diversified governance mechanism has become a established fact, and subsequently, to establish a collaborative mechanism among multiple stakeholders, facilitating multi-faceted and multi-level dialogues to promote active and orderly participation from all parties, rather than pursuing a singular centralized leadership governance mechanism.