Developing an E-Governance Knowledge-platform for the Government of Aruba

The Government of Aruba is on the cusp of a transition to a digital government. To advance into the future for their country and region, Aruba is transitioning to an e-government, modeled after Estonia. The Government of Aruba’s Innovation Lab, FUTURA Lab, has recognized that without the support of the public, any overhaul of their current system will not be successful or sustained. Futura Lab asked the Capstone team for recommendations on how to foster excitement and investment in an e-governance system.

The Capstone team drew on methodologies such as change management and human-centered design, as well as lessons learned from desk research on government innovation best practices in countries such as Estonia, Singapore, South Korea, India, the United Arab Emirates and Rwanda. Additionally, the Capstone team met and spoke with over 27 stakeholders from the public and private sector in Aruba during their visit to the island.

The Capstone team understood that establishing the readiness of public servants and Aruban citizens requires an increase in willingness and ability to embrace a digitalized government. To implement an e-government- strategy successfully, it is key to achieve quick wins and cement long-term resilience. Based on their research and field work, the Capstone derived 9 major policy recommendations for the government to adapt in the immediate term as they move into the implementation step of the process. The Capstone team believes that the Aruban government’s investment in its people, coupled with tangible wins and intentional strategies will result in a strong foundation for a digital government. The Capstone team is confident that changes introduced into Aruban government will be sustained for the long-term, allowing Aruba to lead the Caribbean by example.