Abstract

This paper reports on the research experience gained by carrying out an evaluation for a cross-border identity management system to support e-procurement. This evaluation, which took place in the context of an international research project in the European Union, brought together multiple players. The nature and diversity of the stakeholder involved, and the complexity of the systems under evaluation (in particular their social rather than technical complexity) called for a qualitative evaluation approach. Our investigation provided some interesting insights. On the one hand, these concern the challenges of working in an international project team in the context of a research project. The scope of the project, which essentially aimed at supporting public administrations in diverse national contexts in Europe, adds to complexity as the involvement of public bodies in the trials brings to the fore the political agendas of different parties and member states. On the other hand, equally interesting are the opportunities, the benefits and impediments for cross-border digital identity management across European countries as perceived by the stakeholders involved. These findings have, of course, practical implications for the success of the implementation of e-government systems but also implications for the research agenda in e-government.

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