E-Government

E-government (Electronic Government) involves using online technology for two main objectives. The information age allows governments across the world to fulfil these two objectives of informing and allowing the participation of citizens or users online.

E-Government (Information)

With the advance of online technology, governments of many different countries have official websites that allow users to find information and services there. Among these websites, there are two examples that aim to inform users.

One of these websites is Directgov, a British E-government website. It is the main government information website used by citizens in the UK, as it has over 15 million visits per month. Since its launch in 2004, Directgov offers a wide range of information from employment to education. The site is also open for everyone to use as there is information useful for everyone. (for example, students can research ‘education’ whilst drivers can research ‘travel’).

A screenshot of the Directgov homepage, which shows the range of information available.

Government Gateway is another example of an E-government website. Government Gateway also offers government information in a similar way to Directgov. However, Government Gateway requires a login account whereas Directgov can be used straight away. Government Gateway also provide different types of information depending on who you are, when a user registers with Government Gateway, that user can choose between individuals, organisations or agents. Depending on the option chosen, the user can receive information suited best for that option.

E-Government (Participation)

E-government also allows users to ‘participate’ by using available services involving government issues. This can be convenient for users as most service involving government can be completed at home and online. Many of these services can be found on E-government information sites (see above).

One example of a E-government service is income tax payment. Taxpayers can pay tax online instead of using a cheque. This is quicker and easier for the taxpayer. Websites such as HM Revenue & Customs allow users to pay income tax online.

The logo of the HM Revenue & Customs website.

Vehicle licencing can also be completed online. Sites such as DVLA and NZTA allow users to use a number of services such as tax disc renewal and driver’s licence application. This is also easier and quicker for users as they can use to internet to find information and use services involving vehicle licencing.

E-petitions is another example of a E-government service. E-petitions allow users to express their opinion on government issues and decisions. An E-petition doesn't require a long period of time and is also simple to create. Should an E-petition be accepted by a government department, members of the public can sign in agreement. However, a total of 100,000 signatures are required for the petition to be considered and debated. 

Other examples of E-government

Information about the law is one of the most important parts of E-government as many users feel that the law is an important part of daily life. Therefore, E-government websites have plenty of information about law such as personal rights, reporting crime as well as court and prison. Websites such as Met Police also provide services that allow users to report crime and to search for advice in a situation. Other information on these websites includes local information and police investigations.

The Metropolitan police website allows the user to report witnessed crime easily.

The E-government system is also divided into local areas. This allows users to research information and participate to E-government services locally instead of nationally. A number of different websites are set up for each local area. One example of local government service is the ability to report problems to your local area website. Should a user have a problem with a local issue, E-government websites offer a service that allows users to report problems to your local government. This is convenient for users as it is easy to report a problem online.

One example of an effective E-government website would be NHS Direct. The website gives advice and information to users about personal health, symptoms and other medical information. The site can also find local and nearest hospitals, pharmacies and dentists. Furthermore, the website is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Overall, the website would be very helpful and convenient for users to look up information before visiting a doctor and also to get a better understanding of their own health.

The health service finder allows users to locate the nearest services they need in their area.

Advantages and Disadvantages of E-government

There are also a number of advantages and disadvantages with government information online. One advantage would be the availability of the E-government system. This means that users can pay tax or look up information at any time. Furthermore, this allows government actions to be quicker and cheaper.

Another advantage of E-government is that less employees are also needed to run an E-government system than a paper based government. With the advance in technology, using a E-government system will allow governments to keep up with the public interest of using the latest technology. One example of this are mobile services involving E-government.

However, there are also disadvantages to the E-government system. One of these disadvantages is that technology is prone to technical faults whereas a paper based system would not be affected by these issues. Another disadvantage of E-government would be that internet access is required for E-government. Some people wouldn't have internet access or they just prefer a paper based system of government.

Some users wouldn't feel safe when using E-government services because of a fear of spam and hacking. This would discourage users from using E-government. Furthermore, this would be a disadvantage to the government because some users would avoid E-government despite the fact the cost to run the system.

Some people fear that hackers can access information such as passwords from E-government sites.