Big data and transformational government

The big data phenomenon is growing throughout private and public sector domains. Profit motives make it urgent for companies in the private sector to learn how to leverage big data. However, in the public sector, government services could also be greatly improved through the use of big data. Here, the authors describe some drivers, barriers, and best practices affecting the use of big data and associated analytics in the government domain. They present a model that illustrates how big data can result in transformational government through increased efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of services. Their empirical basis for this model uses a case vignette from the US Department of Veterans Affairs, while the theoretical basis is a balanced view of big data that takes into account the continuous growth and use of such data. This article is part of a special issue on big data and business analytics.