When Money Isn’t Everything: Comparing Digital Modernisation Initiatives in the Portuguese Justice Sector Through the Multiple Streams Framework

The reform of the Judiciary is a pressing matter in Portugal, with the public demonstrating high levels of dissatisfaction with the length of court proceedings. In this regard, several initiatives to modernise the sector’s digital platforms have been carried out. This study investigates which factors influence the likelihood of success in implementing two of these digital modernisation initiatives. A comparative case study approach was employed, and data was gathered from policy documents, system logs from the digital platforms, stakeholder interviews and focus groups, and direct observation. Using the Multiple Streams Framework, we argue that, although both projects shared the same policy window, the stability and continuity of the same policy design amongst change in the political cycle results in greater chances of success of these digitalisation initiatives. Furthermore, the mobilisation of the policy community as part of the implementation effort was also a key factor. Finally, the relevance of the project in the public sphere is a condition that increases the urge to implement the solution. By revealing how stable policy designs and strong stakeholder engagement can drive digital transformation, this study intends to contribute to the existing literature by providing practical insights for policymakers in conducting a successful modernization of the justice sector, which remains understudied.