Impact of Social Media on Government Operational Dynamics

Introduction

Over the past few years, the emergence of new technologies and the widespread adoption of social media have significantly transformed the way people communicate. This shift has not only impacted personal interactions but has also brought about changes in the way public administration operates. Social media's growing popularity and capacity to cater to broad social demands have turned it into a potent tool for network communication. As a result, it has become a means of mutual communication between governments and society, fostering government transparency and the development of democratic societies. Advanced information plays a pivotal role in achieving transparency in public administration. Social networks offer easy and interactive ways for people to connect, allowing them to share various types of content, including text, audio, and video materials. These networks are widely utilized by private, public, and non-governmental organizations, as people seek information and form relationships. As the administration of government functions evolves, interactive multimedia communication becomes an integral part of these networks. The decision for the government to embrace and improve these networks or remain on the periphery lies with them. However, to achieve effective governance, collaboration with citizens in daily tasks and the pursuit of long-term goals is essential.

The role of social media in public administration has become a prominent area of research. Citizens now use information and communication technologies not only for professional purposes but also for social interactions, leading to the expectation of modern, open, and efficient government services. Simultaneously, government institutions facing financial constraints and budgetary pressures are compelled to seek innovative solutions. Responding to citizens' desire for seamless communication and unbiased information, government bodies are increasingly turning to new digital technology and Web 2.0 tools. This approach can help alleviate financial difficulties and enhance the quality of government services, making the exploration of social media's role in shaping and managing e-government a pressing matter. In recent years, the application of Web 2.0 technologies in e-government environments has given rise to various research directions. Studies focused on Web 2.0, social media, social networks, and their usage in the government sector underscore the intricate nature of social media's impact on public administration. As a result, the subject of social media and its role in shaping government practices has become a subject of considerable research interest. The literature review highlights the effectiveness of social media as a tool for the government to bolster citizens' trust by improving their perception of government transparency. A specific case study investigated how citizens' engagement with social media in the context of government activities can influence their trust in the government. This study provided empirical evidence of how perceived government transparency plays a crucial role in connecting the use of e-government with citizens' trust in the government.