Dr. Hamza Alakaleek

Digitalization has become the new standard for efficiency and innovation. Hence, Jordan stands at a crucial crossroads: do we continue to talk about digital transformation as a distant goal, or do we translate it into a measurable and achievable reality? The time has come to shift this concept from a mere "vision" to a "methodology" based on clear, precise, and binding standards.

Today's citizens compare government services to the seamless experience of a smart app on their phone, expecting a quality of response that exceeds their expectations and isn't bogged down by routine. Yet, no entity can succeed in digital transformation without measurable standards.

As Jordan diligently strives to embody the sublime Royal Visions for an integrated digital government, the "Digital Transformation Measurement Index" emerges as a necessity, providing the answer. It's not just an assessment tool; it's a smart empowerment platform to accurately assess their position, for improvement with keen insight. Therefore, this index is a helping hand, a catalyst for development, and a guide for strategies towards achieving the highest levels of digital maturity.

On the other hand, the fundamental question remains: how do we measure success? Can an entity claim digital maturity without a standardized reference? This highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive national index that clarifies each entity's position on the digital transformation map, revealing both shortcomings and opportunities.

Therefore, it's imperative to develop and implement a smart national index to measure the digital transformation maturity of government entities. This index should be based on 10 strategic perspectives, 23 axes, and 96 precise criteria. It won't just measure performance; it will paint a panoramic picture of digital readiness, from infrastructure and institutional culture to beneficiary satisfaction.

One of the most prominent perspectives measured by the index is "Data Governance,". The right information at the right time can cut months of work and prevent future crises. Why aren't data treated as a strategic asset, no less important than budget or human resources?

The Digital Transformation Index doesn't just assess the current situation; it pushes entities to think about tomorrow. Through the "Research and Innovation" perspective, the index questions each entity: how capable are you of adopting future technologies? Do you consider artificial intelligence a real option or a theoretical luxury?

One of the most common misconceptions is equating digital transformation with merely updating hardware or purchasing systems. The truth is, transformation begins from within – from the mindset of the employee, the behavior of the organization, and a courageous decision to change the way of thinking. How many entities have spent millions on technology but failed because they didn't invest in the mindset of those who use it?

In one service sector, the index revealed that an entity had an updated electronic portal but lacked visitor usage analytics, negatively impacting the improvement of the beneficiary experience. Here, the criterion was not just "the existence of an electronic service," but its efficiency and potential for development.

It's smart for the index to measure commitment levels across four grades: full commitment, partial commitment, non-compliance, or not applicable. This means that measurement is not a punitive tool, but a smart diagnostic system that allows each entity to see itself in the mirror of reality. This is what makes the difference: acknowledging the gap is the first step towards closing it. What makes this methodology exceptional is that it doesn't classify performance with a harsh "success or failure" system. Instead, it provides a graded classification.

In the traditional culture of government work, failure is seen as a source of concern. But the reality is that failure discovered early is a golden opportunity to rebuild stronger foundations. The index helps entities courageously confront their failures and transform them into new starting points.

Digital transformation is a continuous journey of development, requiring the courage of self-assessment, uncompromising data transparency, and a firm commitment to continuous improvement. The real challenge facing Jordan today is not a lack of ambition, but its ability to translate this noble ambition into a tangible and measurable reality, where achievements are recorded and challenges are effectively addressed. With a comprehensive national tool, Jordan can transform digitalization into a tool for a brighter, more digital, and more prosperous tomorrow.

Ultimately, you cannot improve what you cannot measure. Digital transformation, despite its bright promises, remains merely a slogan unless it's framed within precise standards, measurable indicators, and continuous support mechanisms. Jordan possesses the will and the resources; it only needs to make measurement a cornerstone of every upcoming digital step.