The steady integration of new technologies (e.g. Cloud computing, social media, mobile technology) into the everyday lives of people, businesses and governments is helping to open up governments and giving rise to new forms of public engagement and relationships that transcend public, private and social spheres.

This new digital environment offers opportunities for more collaborative and participatory relationships that allow relevant stakeholders (Citizens, business and non-governmental organizations), to actively shape political priorities, collaborate in the design of public services and participate in their delivery to provide more coherent and integrated solutions to complex challenges.

The diffusion and adoption of technologies is also changing expectations on governments’ ability to deliver public value. Governments can no longer afford to separate efficiency from other societal policy objectives in the governing and managing of digital technologies.