Addressing top-down challenges in an e-government-based scholarship program in Indonesia, this study explores bottom-up workarounds that were conducted: 1) by the individual, 2) in cooperation with others, 3) facilitated or conducted by others, and 4) workarounds afforded by public participation.
Long abstract:
This paper presents a case study of a longstanding faculty scholarship program in Indonesia, known for enduring challenges. Despite transitioning to an e-government-based model leveraging ICT for applications and progress reporting, persistent and emerging challenges threatened its success. However, the program triumphed through the proactive adoption of workarounds by users, who utilized their skills and networks to navigate these obstacles. The analysis reveals that the most effective categorization of observed workarounds is based on the actors involved. These workarounds are classified into four levels: 1) individual initiatives targeting specific goals, 2) collaborative efforts with peers, 3) facilitation or execution by external parties enabling individuals to achieve their goals, and 4) workarounds driven by public participation, empowering individuals to overcome challenges collectively. This comprehensive examination illuminates the dynamic interplay between top-down strategies and bottom-up solutions in the context of an e-government-based scholarship program. Despite facing persistent hurdles, the program's resilience stems from the ingenuity and adaptability of its users, showcasing the intricate landscape of challenges and the multifaceted nature of successful workarounds. This case study extracts valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of e-government implementation, providing lessons for future endeavors in similar contexts.