Generation of public value through the adoption of government blockchain networks

The analysis of the Brazilian federal government

Abstract

This paper analyses the generation of public value through the adoption of government blockchain networks by different entities of the Brazilian federal government. To this end, the theory of Public Value in Electronic Government is used, with the approach proposed by Twizeyimana & Andersson (2019) with six dimensions of analysis. The method is a multiple case study with the three Brazilian blockchain networks: RBB, RNDS and PIER, which are at different stages of development. The results indicate the governance is a common challenge identified, and exchanging information with other networks is seen as a way of learning and developing the own models. Indeed, the already implemented government blockchain networks (RNDS and PIER) generate public value in the six dimensions and that the RBB has the potential to generate public value in the same dimensions. Furthermore, the choice of blockchain technology was an efficient solution for PIER and RNDS when compared to other technologies available at the time. The RBB was created to be an infrastructure for the development of other blockchain artifacts, to later house applications using the same technology. Governance challenges and balance between participants are crucial aspects in the development of networks. While RBB, a top-down initiative (governance development prior to applications) seeks a stable balance, the hierarchical deployment of PIER and RNDS allows for faster progress of deployment and development of applications on these networks. The paper has limitations in analysing public value from the perspective of public managers and not from co-creation with citizens. As future research, we suggest approaching the cases from the perspective of innovation theories and an investigation of the blockchain ecosystem in government in Brazil.