Shaping the Digital Future of Civil Service: An Assessment of Digital Transformation and Data Science Competencies

In the era of digital transformation and data proliferation, the need for effective digital competency assessment is increasingly critical. However, existing frameworks often lack comprehensive integration of key digital transformation and data science competencies necessary for roles within the civil service sector. This study introduces a robust instrument to profile competency domains critical to digital transformation and data science roles in the civil service. Leveraging a four-phase mixed-method methodology, including brainstorming, external validation, and a pilot study, the instrument was developed, validated, and tested among 30 state government servants. The reliability of the domains-Data Analytics, Data Science Management, Data & Digital Architecture, and Digital Transformation-was confirmed by excellent Cronbach's Alpha values ( 0.9). Content validity was evaluated using Lawshe's Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and Index (CVI), indicating strong validity for Digital Transformation and Data & Digital Architecture domains, while suggesting refinement for Data Analytics and Data Science Management. The proposed instrument, validated through self-evaluation scores, illustrates potential for career and organizational development within the civil service, emphasizing its practical value and feasibility.