Reframing Smart Governance: The Primacy of the Smart Governor in Human–Institution–Technology Interaction

Background and Objective: The digital transformation has paved the way for the emergence of the concept of smart governance, which emphasizes the use of modern technologies to enhance governmental efficiency and accountability. However, much of the existing research—particularly within the digital government literature—has been dominated by a technology-centric approach, overlooking the human factor and the qualities of governors. This has created a significant theoretical gap in governance studies. The present study aims to address this gap by highlighting the primacy of the smart governor over tools and structures in the realization of smart governance. Methodology: The study employs a theoretical–analytical and qualitative comparative approach, drawing upon the IntelliGov conceptual model (Vigoda-Gadot, 2024), which examines three levels of intelligence: human, institutional, and artificial. Data were collected through a critical review of scholarly literature, international policy reports (OECD, UNDP, World Bank), and case studies of four selected countries—Taiwan, Estonia, Denmark, and India. Findings: The findings indicate that in countries such as Taiwan and Denmark, the presence of smart governors has strengthened institutional capacity and promoted the ethical use of technology. In contrast, India’s experience demonstrates that the rapid expansion of technology without reinforcing human and institutional dimensions deepens the digital divide and erodes public trust. Conclusion: This study argues that smart governance is fundamentally a human-centered phenomenon, with technology serving only as an enabling factor. Therefore, cultivating and developing smart governors must be prioritized in public policy and governance strategies.