Until recently, robust economic growth and the increasing exposure of
constituents (both consumers and businesses) to the Internet have favored
e-government strategies. Government agencies have imitated private
enterprises, by becoming more customer-centric and by laying the foundations
for greater effectiveness and efficiency. Most western countries — and
several regions and cities — have e-government strategies in place, with
some in the middle of implementing their plans. The so-called “new
economy” has played a major role in influencing levels of
ambition and priorities, as well as in identifying inhibitors and how to
face them.