Research Article

Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities

Volume: 18 Number: 1 January 15, 2025
TR EN

Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities

Abstract

Digital transformation in municipalities is vital for improving service delivery, increasing operational efficiency and encouraging citizen participation. This study aims to determine the factors that determine the digital maturity levels of institutions and the effects of these factors by focusing on the digital transformation process of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities. In this research, case study design was used to investigate digital maturity in an in-depth and holistic way in the institutional context and to analyze the case of metropolitan municipalities in a real-world context. Data on municipalities' digital initiatives, policies and online platforms were obtained from semi-structured interviews, documents and observation notes. Data were analyzed and interpreted using single-case and cross-case analysis techniques using MAXQDA qualitative analysis software. While both municipalities have made significant progress in their digital transformation efforts, there are significant gaps and areas for improvement. Research findings point to vital factors influencing digital maturity, including leadership commitment, organizational culture, technical infrastructure, data management and citizen engagement. Holistic and comprehensive models that evaluate various dimensions such as technological infrastructure, digital services, data management, and cyber security provide a suitable framework for understanding digital maturity components in municipalities. Each element, from appropriate technological infrastructure and data governance practices to user-friendly e-government services and competent workforce, is critical to raising digital maturity. Municipalities can overcome the complexities of digital transformation through comprehensive digital strategies, user-centered design, and collaboration with stakeholders.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Local Administrations

Journal Section

Research Article

Early Pub Date

January 15, 2025

Publication Date

January 15, 2025

Submission Date

June 6, 2024

Acceptance Date

November 28, 2024

Published in Issue

Year 2025 Volume: 18 Number: 1

APA
Nam, S. (2025). Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities. Kent Akademisi, 18(1), 245-262. https://doi.org/10.35674/kent.1497166
AMA
1.Nam S. Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities. Urban Academy. 2025;18(1):245-262. doi:10.35674/kent.1497166
Chicago
Nam, Selçuk. 2025. “Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities”. Kent Akademisi 18 (1): 245-62. https://doi.org/10.35674/kent.1497166.
EndNote
Nam S (January 1, 2025) Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities. Kent Akademisi 18 1 245–262.
IEEE
[1]S. Nam, “Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities”, Urban Academy, vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 245–262, Jan. 2025, doi: 10.35674/kent.1497166.
ISNAD
Nam, Selçuk. “Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities”. Kent Akademisi 18/1 (January 1, 2025): 245-262. https://doi.org/10.35674/kent.1497166.
JAMA
1.Nam S. Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities. Urban Academy. 2025;18:245–262.
MLA
Nam, Selçuk. “Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities”. Kent Akademisi, vol. 18, no. 1, Jan. 2025, pp. 245-62, doi:10.35674/kent.1497166.
Vancouver
1.Selçuk Nam. Determining Digital Maturity in Metropolitan Municipalities: The Example of Sakarya and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipalities. Urban Academy. 2025 Jan. 1;18(1):245-62. doi:10.35674/kent.1497166

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