Municipal Platforms: An investigative case study from a Norwegian municipality

Abstract

This research aims to investigate a Norwegian municipality, as a case study upon its use of digital platforms. Norwegian municipalities set citizens at the center of its operational areas, by the conduct of a transparent sustainable development, improved work practices and democratic conduct of public services. An empirical approach has been followed, to investigate the utilized municipal platforms to govern and achieve the united nations (UN) Sustainability development goals (SDGs), delivering a transformative action, and public service excellence. The research methodology comprised of conducting 1) a narrative review over the relevant literature and municipal strategic documents, then 2) semi-structured interviews were implemented with key decision makers, where 3) effective measures for improving its digital governance, investments and ownership formats were identified, discussed, and prioritized. The research provides a set of recommendations for improving municipal platforms, and an understanding of their functional use. The research mainly serves the sustainability development goal number 11, namely: "Sustainable Cities and Communities" by soliciting municipal stakeholders’ opinions and professional governance practices upon various range of their adopted digital platforms.