IS DIGITAL PLATFORM BENEFICIAL IN GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS: ANAMBRA STATE CITIZENS’ AND GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS’ PERCEPTIONS OF SOLUTIONLENS PLATFORM?

Abstract

The SolutionLens platform, a digital web-based platform, was created by the Anambra State government to fill the technological gap that traditional government settings lack. Anambra citizens see government platforms as having a top-down system of communication that does not take care of demographics such as youths, rural dwellers and market traders. There is a need to evaluate the effectiveness of the SolutionLens platform in enhancing communications between citizens and government. The study, ‘Is a digital platform beneficial in government communications: Anambra citizens’ and government officials’ perceptions of the SolutionLens platform,’ leaned on innovation diffusion theory and the survey research method and investigated awareness, attitudes and perceptions of Anambra citizens and government officials towards adoption of the SolutionLens platform for enhanced communication between citizens and government. Data was collected through questionnaires from 384 respondents taken from a population of 2,360,866 Anambra citizens and government officials. A Likert scale and a statistical table with frequency distribution and simple percentages were used to analyze data. Findings revealed the majority (53%) of the respondents were not aware of the SolutionLens platform. The majority of the respondents had positive attitudes and positive perceptions of the effectiveness of the SolutionLens platform in facilitating communications between citizens and government, as evidenced in mean scores within and above decision point “3.” The researchers concluded that low awareness of the SolutionLens platform was the reason why Anambra citizens see the SolutionLens platform as one of those government platforms that have a top-down system of communication. The researchers recommended a mass sensitization/awareness campaign, integrating interpersonal and digital marketing, influencer partnerships, and strategic content outreach to increase visibility and drive both government and citizens’ engagement with the platform.