Intent vs Impact: Ramifications of Digitization on Administrative Burden

In this study, we explore the effects of digitalization on administrative burdens in the context of a developing country by examining Bangladesh's birth registration system through qualitative methods. Our findings revealed three types of impacts on the top of burden reduction effects: amplification, continuation, and production. Digitalization can lead to an <i>amplified</i> experience of the older burden, or simply sometimes, the same burden might <i>continue</i>. In other instances, new sources of burden might crop up (<i>production</i>). To mitigate these effects, it is crucial to continually monitor the digitalization process, upgrade digital systems, and provide flexible guidelines to reduce administrative burdens genuinely.