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Examining the Core Dilemmas Hindering Big Data-related Transformations in Public-Sector Organisations

Author

Listed:
  • Kuoppakangas Päivikki

    (Faculty of Management & Business, Tampere University, Finland.)

  • Kinder Tony

    (Tampere University, Finland.)

  • Stenvall Jari

    (Tampere University, Finland.)

  • Laitinen Ilpo

    (City of Helsinki, Finland.)

  • Ruuskanen Olli-Pekka

    (Pellervo Economic Research PTT, Helsinki, Finland.)

  • Rannisto Pasi-Heikki

    (Tampere University, Finland.)

Abstract

This study examines public organisations planning big data-driven transformations in their service provision. Without radical structural change or managerial system changes, leaders face dilemmas: simply bolting on big data makes little difference. This study is based on a qualitative empirical case study using data collected from the cities of Helsinki and Tampere in Finland. The three core dilemma pairs detected and connected to the big data-related organisational changes are: (1) repetitive continuity vs. visionary change, (2) risk-taking vs. security-seeking and (3) technology-based development vs. human-based development. This study suggests that organisational readiness involves not only capabilities; instead, readiness involves absorbing knowledge, making decisions, handling ambiguities, managing dilemmas. Thus, big data-related transformations in public organisations require embracing the world of dilemmas, since selected and cancelled experiments may each have valuable outcomes. The capability to act on intentions is a prerequisite for readiness; however, a preparedness to detect and address dilemmas is central to big data-related transformations. Thus, the ability to make dilemma decisions is a more complicated characteristic of readiness. In conclusion, our data analysis suggests that traditional public organisational and chance management approaches produce unsolved dilemmas in big data-related organisational changes.

Suggested Citation

  • Kuoppakangas Päivikki & Kinder Tony & Stenvall Jari & Laitinen Ilpo & Ruuskanen Olli-Pekka & Rannisto Pasi-Heikki, 2019. "Examining the Core Dilemmas Hindering Big Data-related Transformations in Public-Sector Organisations," NISPAcee Journal of Public Administration and Policy, Sciendo, vol. 12(2), pages 131-156, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:vrs:njopap:v:12:y:2019:i:2:p:131-156:n:6
    DOI: 10.2478/nispa-2019-0017
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    References listed on IDEAS

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