A comparative assessment of local government websites in Greece

Abstract

Local governments such as municipalities usually offer their residents a wider variety of interaction possibilities compared to central governments. These possibilities are augmented and intensified with the application of emerging technologies. The purpose of this study is to provide evidence about the status of Greek local government websites by employing the United Nations' Local Online Service Index (LOSI) methodology to assess the websites of 74 major Greek cities. Results are analysed quantitatively and compared with the LOSI UN Survey results to indicate the relative status of Greek official municipal websites. The results indicate that while Greek local governments score well in institutional framework, content and technology aspects, they do not adequately provide online service and participation possibilities to their residents. Based on the assessment results, we cross-examine and discuss the relation between the education and financial status of local government and its digital development. These findings can help local and central government decision makers to identify gaps, design solutions and draw their particular attention to further develop more usable local government websites.