“Vi sitter i kläm från alla håll och kanter. Det är vår vardag.” En kvalitativ studie om chefers digitala mognad i offentlig sektor

Abstract

This study examines how managers in the public sector experience and manage their digital maturity in the context of digital transformation. The study is based on qualitative interviews with twelve managers and three developers in a municipality in western Sweden and is analyzed based on a theoretical framework that combines individuals digital maturity (DIMI model) with organizational conditions. The results show that managers' digital maturity is influenced by both individual and organizational factors. At the individual level, the importance of digital competence, self-efficacy, and willingness to participate in and lead change are emphasized. At the same time, organizational conditions such as coordination, resources, technical support and clear governance are required. A recurring challenge for managers is that digitization often means increased administrative burden and reduced presence in daily operations. The study makes it clear that managers need more than technical understanding, they need to be able to act as educational change leaders, create meaning in complex processes and have a real influence in digital decision-making processes.