The Global Public Impact of GovTech 2025
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Appendices
A1 Glossary
Term Definition
Digital public goods
(DPG)DPGs are open-source software, open data, open AI models, open standards and open content that
adhere to privacy and other applicable laws and best practices, do no harm and help attain the Sustainable
Development Goals.
Digital public
infrastructure (DPI)DPI is an evolving concept that comprises shared digital systems built and used by both public and private sectors
on secure and resilient foundations, often using open standards, specifications and open-source software to enable
the delivery of services at a societal scale.
Ecosystem In the GovTech context, an ecosystem refers to a collaborative network that includes various stakeholders such
as government entities, start-ups, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), large companies, civil society and
academic institutions. This ecosystem is designed to promote innovation and improve public services through the
integration and application of technology.
Efficiency gains Efficiency gains refer to improvements in performance that result in achieving more output with the same or fewer
inputs or achieving the same output with fewer resources. These gains can be realized through time savings,
increased productivity, resource optimization, and technological or process advancements. They also include better
resource allocation, innovative practices and quality enhancements, such as adopting higher standards, improving
employee training and implementing quality management systems.
Public services Public services refer to the essential government activities and expenditures necessary for the overall functioning
and administration of the state. This includes the operation of executive and legislative bodies, management of
public finances, diplomatic and consular services, funding for basic research, administrative support services, costs
associated with public debt management and financial transfers between different levels of government that support
public functions. These services are fundamental to enabling a government to perform its duties and serve its
citizens effectively.
Government
spendingTotal amount of money spent by governments around the world. This includes spending on ten different sections,
including public services, defence, public order and safety, economic affairs, environmental protection, housing
and community amenities, health, recreation, culture and religion, education and social protection. It encompasses
all financial resources allocated by governments to fulfil their objectives and responsibilities.
GovTech Enhances efficiency, effectiveness and accessibility in public institutions by applying tech-based products
and services to develop and scale solutions, providing a modernization guideline for public sector ecosystems.
Innovation The process of developing and implementing new ideas, methods, products or services that create value
and improve government services and operations.
Public value Public value describes the potential economic and social benefits of a comprehensive GovTech transformation. This
encompasses not only the market size and direct financial gains but also the broader societal impacts in efficiency
gains, transparency and sustainability.
Sustainability gains A practice of operating in a manner that ensures long-term success by considering environmental, social and
economic impacts. It involves creating strategies and operations that meet current needs without compromising
the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Transparency gains Government transparency refers to the openness and accessibility of government actions, decisions and data to
the public. This practice ensures that citizens have the necessary information to hold their government accountable,
participate in decision-making processes and understand the workings of their government.
Value driver In the GovTech context, a value driver is a quantitative and qualitative metric that can influence the public service
delivery by governments through the application of technology.
The Global Public Impact of GovTech: A $9.8 Trillion Opportunity
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