E-government services : an exploration of the main factors that contribute to successful implementation in Libya

This study focuses on the rise of e-Government services around the world, and specifically considers Libya as an example on its efforts and challenges with respect to implementing an e-Government services initiative. E-Government services represent a fundamental shift in the design and methods of government efficiency, accountability and commitment. However, Libya in particular seems to face steep and unique challenges when it comes to the implementation of e-Government services. The country often seems to lack sufficient resources, infrastructure, and know-how to implement a large-scale e-Government services project. Furthermore, a large number of the Libyan population often have little contact with computers and the Internet, and may be distrustful of technology and their government. Primarily, this study aims to articulate the challenges and suggest strategies to overcome them. First, the study provides a literature review, from which a model for the adoption of e-Government services in Libya based on the principles of business management is derived. It details the phases of transforming to e-Government services, including (a) establishing a vision; (b) developing goals, objectives, a work plan and actions; (c) assessing Libyan people’s awareness of e-Government services; (d) setting performance benchmarks; and (e) measuring success. Then, the study employs field studies designed to find out the opinions, attitudes and perspectives of the stakeholders in Libya’s fledgling e-Government services initiative. The results from the data collection confirmed that there are numerous factors that may have to be overcome. A particular instance is that Libya must reach out to its citizens about internet technology, improve its national technological infrastructure, and include the input of all stakeholders in the design and implementation of e-Government services. Following from the surveys, the study also considers a number of specific case studies on Libya that emphasise in compelling terms the challenges, successes, and struggles of Libya’s e-Government services initiative so far. The study makes recommendations and suggests strategies to deal with the identified challenges and finally provides a roadmap to policymakers and the key stakeholders in Libya that may assist in the successful implementation of e-Government services programmes.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo