Page 47 - Building digital public infrastructure for cities and communities

Institutionalizing DPI governance

Many DPI initiatives start as pilot projects or sector-specific programmes. While these can foster short-
term innovation, they often remain isolated, lack interoperability and are susceptible to disruptions
due to political changes. To achieve lasting impact and scale, DPI must be institutionalized, i.e.,
fully integrated into the government’s core administrative functions, policy frameworks and budget
processes.

Key implementation considerations include:

1. Establishing Dedicated DPI Bodies
2. Integrating DPI Across Government Levels

3. Securing Sustainable Funding

4. Policy Safeguards

Governance models and international examples

There is no one-size-fits-all model for DPI governance. The structure depends on each country’s
administrative capacity, legal framework, political system and development priorities. They facilitate
collaboration and create a shared vision for design, management and promotion of DPI (OECD,
2024, p20). Effective DPI governance should balance central oversight with local adaptability,
ensure technological interoperability and enable collaborative delivery of services (World Bank,
2025).

Policymakers can consider the following governance models:

Model type Description
A single national body oversees and operates DPI systems to
Centralized national platforms
ensure standardization.
Local governments manage DPI to tailor services to urban needs,
City-led or decentralized models
within a national framework.
Multiple jurisdictions share governance and standards, allowing
Federated or networked models
flexibility and interoperability.
DPI is co-developed or operated by private partners under clear
Public-private partnerships (PPPs)
regulatory oversight.

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