PA — 2026-08-17
Original Agile Digital Transformation and the Rule of Law: Perks and Perils in a Belgian and a Dutch Public Sector Organization
PA — 2026-07-09
Original Resolving Agile Ambidexterity: Between Ambivalence, Adaptation, and Accommodation
Ines Mergel
Abstract
ABSTRACT Public bureaucracies address challenging and complex problems by applying agile work practices when standard operating procedures or routines fail. In these situations, public managers need to decide whether to exploit existing bureaucratic routines or explore novel solutions through non‐routine agile work practices. This study shows how public managers maneuver between different adoption decisions: (1) remain ambivalent and reject agile, (2) accommodate the needs of the bureaucracy and adjust agile work practices to align with administrative routines, or (3) adapt in an ambidextrous manner by becoming agile literate and choosing the appropriate work practices depending on the public management problem. This study contributes to the literature on agile governance by incorporating the notion of ambidexterity into the existing theory of 21st‐century bureaucracy.
PA — 2026-04-05
Original Citizen‐Centered Public Service Design in Agile Digital Transformation: Insights From Public Mobility Services
Hemin Choi, Maria Cucciniello
Abstract
ABSTRACT The aim of this study is to highlight the critical role of human‐centered design approach as a foundational element in the agile digital transformation of public service design. Grounded in service‐design principles and public‐service logic, it analyses how agencies adopt agile practices and involve stakeholders in co‐design of disrupted municipal public mobility services during Covid 19. Combining a citizen survey, co‐design workshops with officials and user representatives in an Italian city, we find that iterative, participatory cycles help close gaps between service demand and user satisfaction when organizations remain adaptable, stakeholders stay engaged, and technology is aligned with user needs. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to enhance the usability and effectiveness of public services while contributing to broader discussions on sustainable, citizen‐centric governance.