During the last decade there has been a continuous and positive trend in the relationship between the citizen and governmental organizations. The citizen is now usually regarded more as a customer than simply as a tax payer. This new relationship is reflected by a rapid and extensive expansion of government related technology (e-Government), and a similar increase in related expenditure. In the immediate-, and near-future, Cantons and local administrations will be adjusting the way in which they manage their services, and moving toward online services wherever possible.
This online 'desk' offers real advantages, not only to citizens, who win independence from office opening hours when doing business, but for administrations as well. Many Cantons and local governments have noticed greater efficiency in their processes since the implementations of online services. More administrations are considering making significant changes in their IT governance models, and even privatizing their IT.
Although it is likely that local governments will benefit from economies of scale, another trend over the medium-term is likely to be the implementation of federal contracts on every level to save money, or offer a better service. This trend incorporates governmental awareness of Security and Consolidation issues. Security remains an area which can pose or create major problems if systems are not implemented correctly. Consequently, for the Governmental sector, security is at present more important than either mobile commerce or cloud computing, and will remain a first priority for at least for another decade.
Mobility is the new 'normal' lifestyle and is a part of the trend in almost every industry. Mobility creates major challenges in terms of IT customisation, as citizens and employees increasingly access government data from mobile applications. How does the Governmental sector view opportunities for serving their citizens with the support of mobile devices and apps? The trend in this area: more strategic focus on how to serve those citizens who choose to utilise apps. This implementation of a multi-channel strategy is always based on and responsive to the 'match' – the solution to be the "right-size" i.e. appropriate to an organization in terms of skills, technology needs and budget priorities.
These trends are not earth-shaking but they are challenging for governmental organizations, immediately and in the medium-term, as the sector faces difficult budget situations, and pressure for cost efficiency while achieving quick wins.
