Co-production and nudging in the digital era: enhancement of public services?

This chapter explores the synergies between co-production and nudging, aiming to better understand their combined potential in enhancing public services. The qualitative study starts by comparing these approaches and then examines the rise of blended engagement practices, integrating both analogue and digital elements alongside policy interventions rooted in deliberative and behavioural principles. A novel conceptual model is then introduced, capturing the essential elements of co-production and nudging. The model systematises the variety of objectives, strategies, and policies that can be pursued through an integrated approach. Furthermore, detailing the diverse moments of interaction (or public service encounters) between citizens and professionals throughout the service cycle helps public administrators easily identify the conditions essential for well-designed collaborative initiatives. Overall, the chapter provides valuable perspectives on integrating co-production and nudging, offering a fresh viewpoint on their application in public service enhancement.