An empirical analysis of online social network structure to understand citizen engagement in public policy and community building

Authors

Kon Shing Kenneth Chung, University Of SydneyFollow
Akemi Takeoka Chatfield, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

42052

Publication Details

Chung, K. Shing Kenneth. & Chatfield, A. Takeoka. (2011). An empirical analysis of online social network structure to understand citizen engagement in public policy and community building. International Journal of Electronic Governance, 4 (1/2), 85-103.

Abstract

With the advent of emerging web2.0 technologies, governments at all levels offer ‘virtual public spheres’ to promote citizen engagement. However, conceptual and empirical research efforts remain scarce to date. This research examines the role of online social network structure as a mechanism for facilitating collaborative civic engagement. We discuss a case study of an Australian state government initiative – an online social network. Results show limited success with the government’s effort to increase citizen engagement. Thus, policy makers need to (re-)consider IS/business strategic alignment for governing and creating public value to sustain wider civic engagement through the online social network.