Analysis of Human Resource Readiness Among Civil Servants for Realizing a Smart City in Cilegon City

Abstract

The acceleration of information and communication technology (ICT) in local government governance has triggered a paradigm shift in public service toward the smart city concept. However, the successful adoption of this technology is largely determined by the readiness of bureaucratic actors the driving force behind the initiative. This study aims to analyze the readiness of human resources (civil servants/apparatus) in implementing the smart city program in Cilegon City and to identify the internal obstacles encountered. A descriptive qualitative research method was employed, utilizing data collection techniques such as in-depth interviews with key informants (selected via purposive sampling), field observations, and an analysis of local policy documentation. The findings indicate that while the Cilegon City Government has demonstrated a strong regulatory commitment through its Smart City Masterplan, the readiness of its human resources is only partial. The primary obstacles center on a significant gap in digital technical competence both across generations and between different government agencies where ICT literacy is concentrated within technical departments, while frontline bureaucratic units (such as sub-districts and urban villages) remain less prepared. Furthermore, the study identifies a shortage of IT personnel, a scarcity of advanced technical expertise (leading to a reliance on third-party providers), psychological resistance to shifting away from conventional work cultures, and a silo mentality that hinders data interconnection. In conclusion, the acceleration of digital infrastructure in Cilegon City has outpaced the development of human capacity. It is recommended that the local government promptly implement policies for minimum digital competency standards within career management, ensure an equitable distribution of ICT facilities, and intensify digital leadership programs to transform the bureaucratic mindset toward one that is more collaborative and adaptive.