Digital Transformation and Public Welfare Services: The Opportunity, the Challenge, and the Wildcard

By John Storm Pedersen

In this insightful book, John Storm Pedersen explores the consequences of the increasing digitalisation of public welfare services. With reference to the historical contexts of welfare states, Pedersen presents the seven main elements of this digital transformation and their advantages and disadvantages. Digital Transformation and Public Welfare Services focuses on three new concepts that reflect the ways in which digital transformation is significantly altering the welfare state and public service sector. The Opportunity is based on data-driven management, enabling increased welfare to citizens and win-situations for all stakeholders. The Challenge is based on automation and a version 2.0 of New Public Management and The Wildcard replaces citizens' physical presence with a digital presence within public service provision. Pedersen argues that societies should strive to employ the first concept, the Opportunity, as it provides a clear framework to improve welfare for all citizens, creating beneficial arrangements for stakeholders within public service provision. This is an important book for students and researchers of comparative social policy, digital sociology, and sociology and social policy. It will also be invaluable to professionals and policymakers working in the welfare state and public service sectors.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1035325446
• ISBN13: 9781035325443
• Release Date: September 2025
• Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing
• Length: 154 Pages
• Weight: 1.74 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.3" x 9.4"