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 amplified experience of the older burden, or simply sometimes, the same burden might continue. In other instances, new sources of burden might crop up (production). 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.