GUIDELINES FOR ENHANCING THE PERFORMANCE OF VILLAGE HEADMEN AND SUBDISTRICT CHIEFS TOWARD BUREAUCRACY 4.0: A CASE STUDY OF MUEANG KAMPHAENG PHET DISTRICT, KAMPHAENG PHET PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aimed (1) to examine the performance of village headmen and subdistrict chiefs (kamnans) in the context of Public Administration 4.0 in Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District, Kamphaeng Phet Province, and (2) to propose guidelines for improving their performance in alignment with Public Administration 4.0. A mixed-methods research design was employed. To address the first objective, a quantitative approach was used by distributing questionnaires to a sample of 143 village headmen and subdistrict chiefs. Descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, were used to analyze personal factors and levels of opinion regarding their duties in nine legal aspects. For the second objective, qualitative research was conducted through in-depth interviews with six key informants: the district chief officer of Mueang Kamphaeng Phet, a senior district officer, an administrative officers, a Gold Medal Kamnan, and two award-winning village headmen. Content analysis and synthesis of recommendations were performed to derive development guidelines. The findings revealed that: 1.The duties of village headmen and subdistrict chiefs under the Public Administration 4.0 framework showed the lowest performance in innovation and digital dimensions, particularly in maintaining public order and safety, civil registration, and promoting local occupations. The qualitative findings further indicated challenges related to limited budgets, insufficient technological knowledge, and lack of systemic government support. 2.To enhance their performance, the proposed guidelines recommend the state to develop digital platforms, community information systems, technology training programs, and mechanisms for integrated collaboration with other sectors.