Interoperability for digital government: Case studies Cuba and Bolivia

Abstract

Interoperability enables public administrations to exchange public information more quickly and easily and is recognized as a key factor supporting the digital transformation of countries. The countries' interoperability policy documents aim to explore the role of reference models and their follow-up mechanism to foster interoperability among public sector entities, as well as the digitization of public administrations and services. Cuba has worked on a National Interoperability Scheme and Bolivia on guidelines for the implementation of interoperability services by public sector entities of the Plurinational State of Bolivia. This article presents a case study of both reference models for interoperability. In particular, it analyzes knowledge, good practices and lessons learned from the implementation of interoperability in both countries. The study shows that successful implementation of interoperability depends on a strong commitment to align with international initiatives, policies and best practices. It also identified findings that can be generalized and applied in different environments.