‘Online grazing permit’: A review of novel digitalisation procedures of natural resources management projects in Iran

Abstract

Globally, there is a constant growth in digitalisation and e-services. Their main benefits include higher transparency, reliability and accountability of service providers while strengthening fair competition and collaboration. This article improves upon previous literature by adding a new innovative dimension to natural resources management through digitalisation processes. It also narrates a relatively swift alteration of public policies in response to growing access demands to digital data. Here, we examine one of the well-established Iranian public organisations for natural resources management, called 'Forest, Rangeland and Watershed Management Organisation'. This organisation has shifted its procedures to become a significant electronic service provider within a relatively short period. Given its extended offices, diverse range of activities, and human resources portfolio, it could become a role model for other similar organisations at the national, regional and global levels. This review paper highlights the challenges of forming a national digital-based authority for natural resource management. We will cover a few remarks on such quick transition strengths and failures. The lessons learned can be considered in other similar contexts.