The market proves to be a stern judge of government apps

When it comes to harnessing new technology to better serve the people, the government is arguably doing its job. There is no shortage of software applications for smartphone and tablet users, ranging from a country parks guide to promoting safe gay sex. Some apps are no doubt popular and used heavily. But there plenty that remain largely unknown to the public. Cost-effectiveness remains an issue.

The problem was put into perspective by a lawmaker's question on apps expenditure. According to the government reply, the Observatory's weather app had been downloaded 3.8 million times by early this year. It was rolled out at a cost of HK$26 million in 2012-13, and is expected to cost HK$12.9 million more in the following two years. But not all apps are as popular. For instance, one on red tide alerts, developed and maintained at a cost of HK$128,000 in the first year, attracted just 10 downloads. Some apps are apparently one-offs to collect views in public consultations. Yet the King Ying Lei mansion, which once faced demolition, alone generated a series of five apps. With HK$9.5 million earmarked for 100-plus apps in the three years to 2015, the public can be excused for wondering whether the money has been well spent.

Like business enterprises, government going online is a worldwide trend. Officials deserve credit for reaching out to the people and offering e-services via mobile apps. But if the market experience is any reference, apps come and go. Only the interesting or useful ones survive. It is unrealistic to expect every government app to be an instant success.

That said, departments should critically assess the need before jumping onto the mobile apps bandwagon. To ensure the products are what people want, officials can follow the US government's move to solicit app ideas openly before development. Once put to the market, they should not be left buried in app stores. All products and services require promotion. Government apps are no exception.