Integrating Evolution and Maturity Models for Digital Transformation: A Comparative Study of Urban and Rural E-Services in Indonesia

Abstract

Digital transformation in public services has become a critical priority in modern governance. However, varying levels of readiness and implementation between urban and rural areas often create a significant digital divide. This study aims to analyze the dynamics of digital transformation in two regions with contrasting characteristics: Makassar City and Sidenreng Rappang Regency, South Sulawesi. The Dynamic Evolutionary Maturity Framework (DEMF) was developed as a comprehensive evaluative approach by integrating Janowski's Digital Evolution Model and Gartner's Digital Maturity Model. This study adopts a qualitative approach through in-depth interviews, field observations, and policy analysis. The findings reveal that Makassar has achieved a mature level of digitalization with integrated, data-driven public services. In contrast, Sidenreng Rappang remains in the early stages of digital development, facing infrastructure and digital literacy challenges. Thematic analysis supported by NVivo highlights these differences, particularly in user engagement and service contextualization. The DEMF framework effectively captures the complexity of digital transformation processes and outcomes simultaneously, underscoring the importance of a context-based approach in designing digital policies. This study's results offer theoretical and practical contributions to the development of more inclusive and sustainable regional digital transformation policies