A framework for evaluating web sites of public authorities

Purpose - In this paper, the aim is to develop a framework for evaluating the web sites of public authorities. The proposed framework consists of four axes: two for assessing the general characteristics and content of the web sites (namely general characteristics and e-content); and two for assessing specific functionalities addressing their governmental character (namely e-services and e-participation). Design/methodology/approach - The proposed framework is gradually built through a critical analysis of the two relevant domains, web site evaluation and e-government. The methodology used in the case study includes the construction of an appropriate questionnaire for assessing the framework metrics. The practical use of the framework is demonstrated by means of a case study, namely evaluating the web sites of Greek public authorities at local and regional level. Findings - The proposed framework presents a more holistic approach to e-government web site evaluation, while the case study provides some interesting results with regards to the shortcomings of Greek public authority web sites. Research limitations/implications - The proposed framework could be further enhanced by incorporating an evaluation of the demand site of e-government. Moreover, a more thorough approach with regard to privacy would have to include metrics to be answered directly by IT security personnel. Practical implications - The proposed framework can be used for evaluating the web sites of public authorities in a more comprehensive way. As an example, the case study reveals significant results of practical importance by indicating overall progress, aspects that are under-developed, etc. Originality/value - This paper provides a novel framework to e-government web site evaluation that also considers e-government services and e-participation. We anticipate that it will be of interest to both researchers and practitioners alike.