Digital governance model based on multi-criteria methods AHP–TOPSIS: a strategy to optimize administrative efficiency in the Municipal Government of San Pedro de Pelileo.

Abstract

The digital transformation of local governments demands governance models that integrate technical, administrative, and social criteria to improve institutional efficiency. This study aimed to design a digital governance model based on the multicriteria methods AHP–TOPSIS, focused on optimizing administrative efficiency in the Decentralized Autonomous Government (GAD) of San Pedro de Pelileo. An applied research approach with a quantitative and participatory methodology was implemented and a massive deliberative citizen consultation using artificial intelligence (Pol.is). Six strategic criteria—operational efficiency, transparency, citizen participation, territorial equity, innovation, and sustainability—were weighted through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) using the judgments of ten institutional experts. Subsequently, digital project alternatives were evaluated using the TOPSIS technique to determine their relative closeness to the ideal solution. The results revealed that operational efficiency (weight = 0.261) was the most significant criterion, while the implementation of an integrated digital document management system achieved the highest score (Ci = 0.865), emerging as the optimal alternative. In conclusion, the AHP–TOPSIS model provides a robust and transparent framework for prioritizing technological projects and strengthening municipal digital governance under principles of efficiency, accountability, and administrative effectiveness.