Digital Transformation in the Public Sector: Bibliometric and Systematic Review Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This article aims to analyze the evolution of digital transformation in the public sector as well as the trends, limits, and obstacles of this process. Method: Our bibliometric and systematic literature analysis on digital transformation in the public sector is based on scientific articles published between 2017-2021 in different selected contexts. This analysis is based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria defined by adopting the PRISMA method. Out of 3083 extracted articles, 88 were processed through a bibliometric analysis, followed by a systematic analysis to answer the research questions. Finding: The analyzed articles highlighted the growing interest of researchers in digital transformation in the public sector, particularly after the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. This integration of digital, based on endogenous and exogenous factors, would allow public organizations to improve their capacities at all levels. Theoretical and managerial implications: This work reviews the research papers on digital transformation in the public sector. In addition, this paper summarizes the good practices identified in organizations on a global scale to promote benchmarking. Limitations: The exclusion of several articles from other areas of research (Law, sociology, economics, politics, etc.).