Algorithmic formalization: Impacts on administrative processes

2024/08/27 by Antonio Cordella, Francesco Gualdi · 1 voice · 2 citations
Computer Science · Social Sciences · #Blockchain Technology Applications and Security #Ethics and Social Impacts of AI #Legal and Policy Issues

paper · pdf · doi:10.1111/padm.13030

openalex publication_date 2024/08/27 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28

Abstract

Abstract This paper investigates the influence of algorithms on the administrative processes within public organizations, utilizing the foundational theory of formalization from Walsh and Dewar (1987) as a framework. Introduces the concept of “algorithmic formalization”, a new form of formalization induced by the adoption of algorithms, which fundamentally alters administrative workflows. Focusing on COMPAS algorithm used in the US judiciary for risk assessment, the paper illustrates how the algorithm serves multiple roles – as code, channel, and standard – systematizing administrative processes related to risk assessment and judicial decisions. By delving into COMPAS case study, the research sheds light on the novel concept of algorithmic formalization, emphasizing its significant repercussions for analyzing and applying algorithmic administrative processes.

Citations

• A PUBLIC MANAGEMENT FOR ALL SEASONS?
• Digital Government, Open Architecture, and Innovation: Why Public Sector IT Will Never Be the Same Again
• Qualitative Case Study Methodology: Study Design and Implementation for Novice Researchers
• Accountable Artificial Intelligence: Holding Algorithms to Account
• Algorithmization of Bureaucratic Organizations: Using a Practice Lens to Study How Context Shapes Predictive Policing Systems
• Assessing public value failure in government adoption of <scp>artificial intelligence</scp>
• Artificial Intelligence in Government: Taking Stock and Moving Forward
• Explaining Why the Computer Says No: Algorithmic Transparency Affects the Perceived Trustworthiness of Automated Decision‐Making
• Managing Artificial Intelligence

Cited by

• Algorithmic Governance: Experimental Evidence on Citizens' and Public Administrators' Legitimacy Perceptions of Automated Decision‐Making
• <scp>AI</scp> Public Value Creation: Data Encoding, Aggregation, and Algorithmic Computation

Discussions

• "Algorithmic formalization: Impacts on administrative processes" in 103(2) highlights how algorithms serve several roles, including coding, channel, and standard. doi.org/10.1111/padm... [bsky, 1 points, 0 comments]

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