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This study aims to investigate the factors influencing public servants’ anxiety and general public’s opposition toward the implementation of digital participatory platforms (DPPs) and municipal digital transformation (DX) in Japan. By addressing these factors, the research seeks to provide insights for policymakers to facilitate smoother transitions to digital governance and increase public acceptance and engagement.

The study uses surveys conducted with both general public and public servants. The surveys were designed based on previous research and collected data through Web-based questionnaires. General public’s data were collected from 366 valid responses over four days in July 2022, while public servants’ data were gathered from 197 valid responses over eight days. Statistical analysis was used to identify key factors influencing anxiety and opposition.

Public servants’ anxiety is influenced by self-perceived creativity, openness to innovation, international collaborations, work-life balance and gender equality reforms. The general public’s opposition stems from dissatisfaction with current digital tools, social media use and political engagement. Both groups could benefit from targeted training, improved usability and inclusive engagement strategies.

The findings suggest that targeted training to enhance public servants’ creativity and digital literacy, fostering an innovative organizational culture and promoting work-life balance can reduce anxiety about DPPs. For general public, improving the usability of digital tools, engaging them in the design process and leveraging social media for communication and feedback can increase acceptance of digital initiatives.

Understanding the concerns of both public servants and general public regarding DX can lead to more inclusive and effective governance. By addressing these concerns, policymakers can foster greater public trust and engagement, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and transparency of municipal governance.

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to resistance to DX in public governance. By examining both public servants’ and general public’ perspectives, it offers valuable insights for designing and implementing strategies to facilitate smoother transitions to digital participatory governance.