Beyond e-government stages: A multi-dimensional study of digital transformation in Ecuador

Abstract

Ecuador's digital transformation reflects notable institutional progress, though persistent structural and implementation challenges persist. Using the 2024 UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI) and E-Participation Index (EPI) as benchmarks, this study presents an analysis of the country’s evolution in digital governance, structured around five strategic dimensions: normative foundations, technological capacity, citizen participation, international integration, and implementation capacity. The findings indicate strong performance in the Online Service Index (OSI) and improved EPI scores, suggesting advances in service delivery and civic engagement. Key milestones such as the Organic Law on Personal Data Protection and the establishment of the Superintendence of Personal Data Protection, have strengthened the regulatory framework. However, foundational weaknesses in telecommunications infrastructure (TII) and human capital (HCI) continue to constrain progress. Implementation remains the most pressing challenge, explaining the existence of a persistent "big data gap", a deep structural disconnect between the availability of digital potential and its effective use in practice. Bridging this gap requires stronger implementation capacity, targeted infrastructure investment, and user-centered design to translate digital strategies into inclusive and participatory governance.