The Effect of Digital Literacy on Digital Government Adoption in Developing Countries: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Despite significant investments in their digital government or eGovernment projects, developing countries continue to face low adoption rates of their digital public services. The study in this report explores the impact of digital literacy on the adoption of digital government platforms. Using a Systematic Literature review guided by Kitchenham and Charters protocol and thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke’s framework, the findings show digital literacy’s central role in successful eGovernment. Not only does digital literacy influence citizens’ trust, but it also contributes to long-term engagement of citizens with eGovernment systems. Socio-economic factors also come into play. Income, education and location influence how prepared citizens are to use digital government services. The study provided insights on how IT project managers can enhance adoption by influencing project rollout and offering support to the most disaffected groups. The practical guidance suggests activities and considerations for IT project based on our findings and ground them in PMBOK framework developed by the Project Management Institute. It emphasizes the importance of stakeholder management throughout the different phases of the project especially when trying to address eGovernment outcomes in developing countries by promoting digital inclusivity.