THE IMPACT OF E-GOVERNMENT IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR: A CASE STUDY OF ELECTRONIC PUBLIC PROCUREMENT

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze how contemporary digital technologies transform traditional public sector processes, with the objective of improving the quality and performance of public services. The main focus is on public procurement and the manner in which e-government initiatives and public sector digitalization influence the acquisition of goods and services carried out by governmental institutions. Particular attention is given to the role of electronic public procurement in enhancing transparency, fairness, efficiency and accountability, as well as its potential to shape the future of public administration. Given the significant economic and social importance of public procurement, this research examines how e-government contributes to improving procurement processes through the use of advanced technologies, institutional platforms and electronic portals. By promoting the fair and efficient use of public funds, the study also addresses contemporary challenges such as sustainability and responsible public spending. The research builds on prior bachelor level work that analyzed the improvement of public services through software applications, emphasizing the importance of interoperable digital solutions in addressing persistent issues such as bureaucracy and reducing time waste for the citizens. While the earlier study adopted a broader perspective on digital public services, the present paper narrows its focus to applications specifically related to public procurement. Methodologically, the paper is structured in two main parts. The first consists of a theoretical framework developed through the analysis of specialized literature, scientific articles and relevant sources. The second part presents a practical case study focused on the implementation and impact of electronic public procurement systems in Romania, with comparative references to practices adopted in other European countries. The empirical component is based on a qualitative approach, consisting of semi-structured interviews conducted in written form with professionals involved in the field of public procurement, aiming to identify perceptions regarding the transparency, efficiency, challenges and anti-corruption potential of electronic procurement systems. The findings suggest that digitalization has contributed to improving transparency, accessibility and administrative efficiency in public procurement processes. The study contributes to the academic literature on e-government and public procurement by incorporating both institutional outcomes and social perceptions, thereby offering an original and comprehensive perspective.