Description
Using various cases from the region, this paper discusses the potential impact of IT governance on government and governance in the Middle East. To do so, it briefly describes the global perspective on the topic and then examines the different challenges, demographics, and cultural dynamics that shape the Middle East it discusses how this affects the potential role of IT governance tools. Many governments in the Middle East are vocal about the core values and drivers behind their national agendas. For example, the UAE Vision 2030 talks about justice and openness, while the Dubai Strategy 2020 addresses quality social services. Qatar Strategy 2030 encompasses social development and individual freedom, while Saudi Arabia 2025 emphasizes the modernization of governance. Many of these unique values are embedded in IT. Consistent with the benefits of communication, collaboration, transparency, and empowerment, there are significant opportunities and risks for governments considering a more robust adoption of IT governance tools and capabilities. While the role of technology in fostering social movements is complex, a significant segment of Middle Eastern citizens already use the reality is that we communicate regularly using tools like Twitter, Facebook, blogs, and online video. Middle Eastern governments now have a major opportunity to engage their citizens in two ways using interactive tools and technologies of the web, IT, and IT governance. Governments can streamline service design and delivery, improve policymaking and regulatory reform, and create opportunities for better engagement with citizens. However, the open, transparent, and collaborative qualities of web series rarely come easy to governments.