The generation of public value through e-participation initiatives: A synthesis of the extant literature

• Published in: Government information quarterly 2024-06, Vol.41 (2), p.101935, Article 101935
• Main Authors: Karkin, Naci, Cezar, Asunur
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: E-participation; Public value; Stakeholder engagement; Systematic literature review
• ISSN: 0740-624X; 1872-9517
• DOI: 10.1016/j.giq.2024.101935

The number of studies evaluating e-participation levels in e-government services has recently increased. These studies primarily examine stakeholders' acceptance and adoption of e-government initiatives. However, it is equally important to understand whether and how value is generated through e-participation, regardless of whether the focus is on government efforts or user adoption/acceptance levels. There is a need in the literature for a synthesis focusing on e- participation's connection with public value creation using a systematic and comprehensive approach. This study employs a systematic literature review to collect, examine, and synthesize prior findings, aiming to investigate public value creation through e-participation initiatives, including their facilitators and barriers. By reviewing sixty-four peer-reviewed studies indexed by Web of Science and Scopus, this research demonstrates that e-participation initiatives and efforts can generate public value. Nevertheless, several factors are pivotal for the success and sustainability of these initiatives. The study's findings could guide researchers and practitioners in comprehending the determinants and barriers influencing the success and sustainability of e-participation initiatives in the public value creation process while highlighting potential future research opportunities in this domain. •The study offers a literature synthesis on the interaction between e-participation initiatives and public value creation.•The study presents insights into the capacity of e-participation initiatives to generate public value.•The review identifies key factors on the success and sustainability of e-participation initiatives in public value creation.•The study opens avenues for future research by pinpointing potential gaps concerning public value creation.