Navigating the successful digital transformation of correctional services: Challenges, good governance, and a hybrid framework

Abstract

Digital transformation initiatives are essential for advancing correctional services toward digital maturity in Macao. However, the absence of a well-defined overarching strategy presents a significant impediment to the effective implementation of reforms. Due to the fact that the intelligent construction of the penal system has not yet been integrated with the extant eGovernment, the governance of the correctional system and its capabilities necessitate rigorous enhancement. Good governance encompasses legitimacy, accountability, transparency, capacity, fairness, responsiveness, participation, and consensus, which are widely considered core principles of public administration and are well-suited to linking the vision of digital transformation and smart correction initiatives. Based on the practice of eGovernment in Macao, which aspects can facilitate the digital transformation of correctional services to enhance the modernization of governance systems and capabilities, and achieve good governance? This study employs qualitative research methods, including a comprehensive literature review, secondary data collection, and analysis of legal documents, regulations, and sentencing policies within the Macao penal system. A SWOT-Plus analysis is conducted to assess potential internal and external trends and identify extant challenges. A hybrid framework is proposed that incorporates the incentives for eGovernment and the fundamental principles of good governance, including key governance beliefs and values ​​such as organization, process, regulation, and culture. The findings also outline a series of expected impacts on correctional services that navigate the transformation ideology and foster successful implementation, thereby coordinating the vision of smart government.