Coordinating Interdependent E-Government Solutions Illustrated on the Electronic Change of Address in Switzerland

Abstract

In this case study we illustrate the high complexity of a rather simple inter-agency e-government service: change of address in Switzerland. This enables us to identify typical sources and dimensions of complexity for inter-agency services in countries with decentralised competencies among government agencies. From the resulting picture we draw conclusions on how to deal with complexity - and how to avoid further dramatic increases of e-government complexity. In particular, we discuss the role of coordination of e-government service development projects plays in the fight against exploding complexity.