Between Digital Innovation and Implementation Gaps: A Study of Smart Governance in Banda Aceh
Raja Al-Fath
Universitas Syiah Kuala
Loetvy Wahyuningtiyas
Universitas Jember
Shiti Maghfira
Tohoku University
Winda Hanifah
Universitas Syiah Kuala
Arief Gunawan
Universitas Syiah Kuala
DOI:
Abstract
The implementation of smart governance in Banda Aceh has advanced within the broader smart city development agenda through the support of regulatory frameworks, digital infrastructure, command centers, information portals, and various digital service applications, however, this transformation continues to face challenges such as system fragmentation, unequal internet access, uneven digital literacy, and suboptimal service integration. This study aims to analyse the existing conditions of four key indicators e‐government, transparency, public participation, and digital public services, identify major challenges, and develop conceptual directions for strengthening data‐driven and citizen‐centred governance that is more inclusive, responsive, and sustainable at the municipal level. The study is positioned as a descriptive‐evaluative inquiry; thus, its recommendations are indicative rather than prescriptive program designs. The study employs a qualitative descriptive approach supported by quantitative data through content analysis of policy documents, academic reports, and related literature, as well as descriptive analysis of online questionnaire responses from 30 respondents representing citizens, business actors, and government officials. The findings reveal that digital public services achieved the highest score (3.65), followed by transparency (3.56), public participation (3.55), and e-government (3.44). These results indicate the initial progress of digital transformation while also emphasizing the need for stronger inter-application integration, consistent data updating, enhanced institutional capacity, and broader digital inclusion. Accordingly, the study positions Banda Aceh in a transitional phase from service digitalization toward a more integrated, participatory, and trust-based smart governance model.
Keywords: Smart Governance, E-Government, Public Participation, Digital Services, Banda Aceh City
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