New public management and enabling technologies

New Public Management redefines the role of information systems in public administration that up to now have been treated as an undervalued resource. Key technological developments are discussed (Electronic Document Management, Electronic Document Interchange, Computer Supported Cooperative Work) and the role of National Information Infrastructures is addressed. Eventually, these technological developments will lead to innovative administrative information systems whose enabling potential corresponds to strong demands from public management. The achievements will be far reaching: enhancement of policy formulation, promotion of participation, effectiveness of planning and interventions, means of empowering citizens, improvements of service quality, more efficient use of resources.