Smart Public Administration and Data-Driven Decision-Making: Opportunities and Risks for Modern Governance

Abstract

This study examines Smart Public Administration and Data-Driven Decision-Making: Opportunities and Risks for Modern Governance by analyzing how digital systems, integrated data, and administrative analytics shape contemporary public sector decision-making. The objective of the research is to explain the opportunities and risks of data-driven governance in improving administrative efficiency, policy responsiveness, transparency, and public accountability. This research applies a qualitative method with a case study design because the issue requires an in-depth understanding of institutional practices, decision-making processes, and governance challenges rather than statistical measurement. The research was conducted in the Digital Government and Smart Governance Unit of a metropolitan local government in Indonesia, referred to as Metro City Government. Twelve informants were purposively selected because they have direct knowledge and experience in digital governance, policy planning, data management, public service delivery, accountability, and citizen participation. The findings show that smart public administration strengthens evidence-based policy, service monitoring, complaint management, and administrative coordination. However, it also creates risks related to data fragmentation, privacy, algorithmic bias, weak institutional capacity, and reduced frontline discretion. The study recommends strengthening data governance, ethical regulation, institutional coordination, civil servant data literacy, and citizen-centered accountability mechanisms.