IDPM Working papers
This Working Paper is part of the iGovernment Working Papers series
Analysing eGovernment Implementation in Developing Countries Using Actor-Network Theory
Carolyne Stanforth
Abstract
This paper addresses the value of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in supporting the "good governance" agenda of public sector reform programmes in developing countries. Within the overall spectrum of reform, there has been particular interest in improving the accountability and transparency of public finance.
The paper presents actor-network theory (ANT), based particularly on Law and Callon's work, as a framework for understanding e-government for public finance reform. It applies this theory to a longitudinal study of public expenditure management information systems in Sri Lanka. Alongside specific findings about the global and local networks that have shaped this set of e-government applications, the paper also reflects on the value, applicability and operationalisation of actor-network theory in development informatics research.
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