2022/09/26 by Jonathan S. Davies, Davies, Jonathan, Miguel Arana‐Catania +3
Social Sciences · #Computers and Society (cs.CY) #E-Government and Public Services #FOS: Computer and information sciences #Public Policy and Administration Research
paper · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2209.12598
openalex publication_date 2022/09/26 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
The challenging task of embedding innovative participatory processes and technologies within local government often falls upon local council officers. Using qualitative data collection and analysis, we investigate the ongoing work of Scottish local councils seeking to run the process of participatory budgeting (PB) within their institution, the use of digital platforms to support this and the challenges faced. In doing so this paper draws on empirical material to support the growing discussion on the dynamics or forces behind embedding. Our analysis shows that formal agreement alone does not make the process a certainty. Local council officers must work as mediators in the transitional space between representative structures and new, innovative ways of working, unsettling the entrenched power dynamics. To do so they must be well trained and well resourced, including the ability to use digital platforms effectively as part of the process. This provides the necessary, accessible, transparent and deliberative space for participation.