Strategic Evolution of IT Leadership in Indonesian National Police Using the IT Strategic Grid

Abstract

Background:  Digital transformation has increasingly positioned Information Technology (IT) as a strategic enabler of public service quality, transparency, and data-driven decision-making. Within the Indonesian National Police (Polri), however, fragmented applications, limited data integration, and the absence of comprehensive IT governance have constrained the strategic value of digital initiatives. Objective:  This study examines the evolution of IT's role in Polri from administrative support to a strategic enabler and analyzes how IT leadership and governance mechanisms have facilitated this transition. Methods:  A qualitative approach was employed using the IT Strategic Grid framework. Data were collected through document analysis of 12 strategic and administrative documents, field observations at three Polri public service units, and international benchmarking with police organizations in the United Kingdom, India, and Singapore. Results:  The findings indicate that Polri's IT role has evolved from the Support quadrant, characterized by isolated administrative automation, to the Turnaround quadrant through the implementation of digital public services such as SIM Online, SKCK Online, E-Tilang, and SP2HP. The establishment of the ICT Committee and the development of the Presisi SuperApp have further accelerated the transition toward the Strategic quadrant by strengthening governance, service integration, and data-driven decision-making. Nevertheless, application fragmentation, interoperability limitations, cybersecurity challenges, and organizational readiness remain significant barriers to achieving fully integrated digital governance. Conclusion:  The study demonstrates that governance mechanisms and IT leadership, rather than technology alone, are the primary drivers of IT role evolution in Polri. The findings extend the application of the IT Strategic Grid to policing institutions.