DIGITAL COMPETENCY OF THAI BUREAUCRATS AND THE TRANSITION TO DIGITAL GOVERNMENT: AN ANALYSIS THROUGH THE 4M FRAMEWORK (MAN, MONEY, MATERIAL, MANAGEMENT)

Abstract

This article studies the digital competencies of public sector personnel for transitioning to digital government. It compiles and synthesizes findings from research studies as a descriptive academic article, using data synthesis methodology from related research and policy documents. The article presents three sections: the first section explains concepts and theories regarding competency and digital competency; the second section describes essential skills for future civil servants as defined by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and digital skills by the Office of the Civil Service Commission; and the final section discusses challenges in developing digital competencies of public sector personnel through analysis using the 4M conceptual framework. The findings reveal that in terms of Personnel (Man), age, attitudes toward learning new things, and positive attitudes of organizational leaders toward digital technology affect digital competency development, presenting challenges due to the diverse age groups in the public sector. Regarding Budget (Money), some agencies lack sufficient funding for practical digital training workshops. In terms of Materials, the lack of stable wireless networks and modern equipment poses obstacles to digital competency development. Meanwhile, in Management, Thailand's Digital Government Development Plan 2023-2027 represents an opportunity for developing digital competencies according to established goals. The policy recommendations suggest that public sector agencies should develop operational sub-plans aligned with the digital competency development guidelines specified in Thailand's Digital Government Development Plan 2023-2027, establish clear timelines for operations and digital skills training activities, increase budget support for digital competency training focused on management groups to create positive attitudes among leaders and facilitate the transfer of concepts for applying digital technology in work practices.