Navigating the Digital Wave Equipping Public Officials for Technology- Driven Governance

Abstract

This chapter addresses the critical role of digital competence in the public sector amidst ongoing digital transformation. The rapid integration of technology into governance and administrative processes demands a workforce equipped with specialised digital skills. This study employs a mixed-methods approach with a literature review and a case study on the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in India, which contextualises and validates the identified strategies through practical applications. To bridge the gap, the authors have introduced the Digital Competency Matrix for Public Officials (DCMPO), a structured framework designed to evaluate and enhance the digital capabilities of public sector employees. Grounded in a synthesis of seminal literature and case study, the matrix outlines key competency domains, including data literacy, technological agility, strategic communication, and collaborative tool proficiency. The DCMPO serves as both an evaluative tool and a developmental roadmap, enabling public institutions to assess current skill levels and identify targeted areas for improvement.