The reality of e-service in the public sector: a local government perspective

This paper, based on a pilot study of some of the fundamental issues involved in adopting e-technologies in the public sector, outlines some of the key aspects of electronic government. It addresses some of the social, cultural and technological issues. The effectiveness of e-services within the public sector is discussed - with a focus on four specific facets of effectiveness: the view of management and ICT strategists; social, cultural and ethical implications; the implications of lack of access to ICTs; and the customers´/citizens´ view of the usefulness and success of e-service initiatives.