The relationship between digital competence levels and strategic management perceptions of public employees: The case of Kastamonu province

Technological advances in the field of information and communication have led not only to changes in individuals but also to radical changes in the functioning of public institutions. While the concept of digitalization has enabled people working in public institutions to benefit from the services provided to citizens more effectively and efficiently, they have also made technology a fundamental element. Digital competence encompasses the ability of individuals to understand, use and interact with technological tools. It is expected that individuals with digital competence will be able to use technology, which is in a state of constant change today, more simply and effectively, communicate easily and produce quick solutions to the problems encountered. Strategic management is the process of analyzing the internal and external factors of the organization in detail, evaluating its current position and understanding the changes that take place over time. This management approach helps the organization to achieve its long-term goals for the future while providing direction in general terms. Although what will happen in the future cannot be predicted exactly, it is important for both individuals and organizations to be prepared for uncertainty. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between the digital competence levels of public employees and their perceptions of strategic management. The study has been reduced to the province of Kastamonu and includes employees working in various public institutions in Kastamonu province. The quantitative method was used in the research and the survey method, which is one of the data collection tools, was utilized. The data obtained were analyzed through SPSS program. In addition to descriptive statistics, regression and correlation analyzes were also performed. According to the results of the study, it was determined that the digital competence levels of public employees were at a significant level and their perceptions of strategic management were positive. The relationship between digital competence and strategic management perceptions was found to be positive. In the light of these findings, it is revealed that digital competencies play a major role in strategic thinking and decision-making processes. As a result of the research, it is suggested that public organizations should increase trainings to improve the digital skills of employees and encourage them to contribute to strategic management processes.