Why Digitization Can Accelerate and Simplify the Processes That Connect Citizens and Governments

Significant efforts are currently underway to accelerate digitization in the payment of administrative processes and services. This will benefit the various segments of the population by improving security, efficiency, and accessibility.

This will be carried out gradually in three phases, beginning with 30% of the processes, followed by the next 30%, and ending with the remaining 40%. ⁽¹⁾

However, it is important to understand that in a country as large as Colombia, with 136 national entities and 2,208 territorial entities, the digitization status can vary significantly. Some of the larger agencies have made great strides, while smaller ones are only just getting started. What is certain is that agencies large and small are all aware of the importance of adapting to technological advancements.

The motivation to kickstart the digitization journey lies in the need to migrate from in-person and outdated processes to secure and efficient systems. For example, some departments have already digitized vehicle taxes to reduce queues at banks and simplify the payment process. Therefore, each government agency should analyze and make decisions to ensure compliance and acquire the most suitable digital services that meet the needs of their customers.

All of these changes are upheld and supported by the government through Decree 088 of January 24, 2022, which reads as follows: “With this new regulation, we establish a fundamental element to continue advancing in the digital transformation of the country and strengthening the relationship between citizens and the State.” ⁽²⁾

To meet these objectives, the government sector requires tools such as ERP systems, electronic signatures, cloud storage, and secure electronic service providers. In the future, the processes are expected to be made available on mobile devices for convenience and improved user experience.

However, it is important to organize awareness and education campaigns, especially for older citizens and those with limited access to digital media. It is no use having state-of-the-art digital systems and processes if the population does not make adequate use of them.

According to the Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications of Colombia (Ministry of ICT): “It is estimated that by 2037, the digitization of administrative processes will have exceeded 70,000, which corresponds to more than 2,000 national and regional Executive Branch authorities, as well as individuals who perform public and/or administrative functions.” ⁽³⁾

Advantages of Joining the
Digital Acceleration Race

1. Improve administrative efficiency:

Digitizing government transactions and services will reduce the time and costs associated with bureaucracy and paperwork. Taxpayers can complete their transactions from the comfort of their homes without having to visit a physical location and waste time waiting in long lines. This benefits not only citizens but also entities that can optimize their resources and provide more efficient services.

2. Streamline payments and reduce operating costs

It simplifies the collection of taxes and other payments. Taxpayers can complete their payments quickly and securely through online platforms while reducing the operational costs associated with manually processing cash payments.

Another associated benefit is that digital records allow for more accurate and detailed tracking of payments made, simplifying reconciliation and accountability. Taxpayers also have access to their payment history and electronic receipts for more peace of mind and confidence in the process.

3. Improve public administration efficiency:

By digitizing data and systems, information can be collected, analyzed, and used in real-time to make informed decisions and design more effective public policies. The adoption of technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things also provides powerful tools for strategic planning, managing resources, and solving complex problems.

4. Data security and protection:

Digital acceleration should go hand in hand with strong data security and protection measures. It is essential for government entities to implement secure and reliable systems to guarantee the privacy and integrity of their citizens’ information. Cybersecurity must be a priority, and strict protocols and controls must be in place to prevent unauthorized access and cyberattacks.

Digital acceleration is crucial in the government sector in Colombia in order to promote the development, efficiency, and transparency of government entities.

Digitizing administrative processes and services improves efficiency, promotes citizen accessibility and participation, improves public administration efficiency, and strengthens data security and protection. In an interconnected world, it is crucial for the government sector to adapt and make use of digitization opportunities to provide better services to their citizens and contribute towards building a more advanced and equitable society.

Jhoan Molina
Senior Business Analyst