ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to improve cross-boundary collaboration for the production and delivery of public information as an area that creates cross-fertilization between e-government literature and public administration and management literature. It develops a conceptual framework that serves as an example of infusing public administration and management research into the study of electronic government. The use of ICTs can alter the governance structure as a whole by reinforcing political control of the central office. ICT use can also allow for low-cost coordination and collaboration for individuals and/or participating organizations to self-organize and form teams to solve problems together. Resource dependence is central in understanding why organizations join networks and maintain their network membership. Shared goals and understanding is an important condition for effective cross-boundary collaboration. One of the fundamental challenges associated with collaboration across organizational boundaries is the diversity of interests and organizational cultures.
