Home⇛Isabela State University Linker: Journal of Engineering, Computing and Technology⇛vol. 2 no. 2 (2025)

From Manual to Digital: Investigating Reporting Barriers and Exploring Pathways to a Smart Digital Platform for Urban Infrastructure and Services

Lady Jade Z. Conlu | Ivy M. Tarun

Discipline: information systems

 

Abstract:

This study investigated the current reporting mechanisms for urban infrastructure and services in a municipality in the Philippines, while identifying barriers that hinder effective citizen engagement and exploring pathways toward digital transformation. With global urbanization projected to reach 70% by 2050, municipalities are under increasing pressure to develop efficient and sustainable infrastructure management systems. Using a descriptive research design and quantitative methods, the study surveyed 148 respondents across four selected barangays to assess existing reporting practices, their effectiveness, challenges encountered, levels of access and awareness, and community readiness for digital transition. Findings revealed a fragmented manual reporting system lacking centralized tracking mechanisms, which limits local government capacity to make data-driven decisions and promptly address infrastructure issues. The research defines the key barriers, including technological limitations, governance challenges, and gaps in digital literacy that impede the adoption of smart solutions. By understanding these gaps, such as limited accessibility, lack of transparency, and inefficient feedback mechanisms, the study provides a foundation for designing a user-centric digital platform tailored to the citizens’ needs. This research contributes to ongoing smart city development efforts in the Philippines, where 70% of urban LGUs are preparing for smart city initiatives yet face significant implementation challenges, offering insights for other municipalities embarking on similar digital transformation journeys.



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