Implementing Digital Business Licensing through OSS-RBA: Assessing Local Government Capacity Using the Edwards III Policy Implementation Model

Abstract

Digital transformation in public services depends not only on the availability of technology but also on the capacity of local governments to implement digital policies. This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Online Single Submission Risk-Based Approach (OSS-RBA) in business licensing services at the Belu Regency DPMPTSP based on four dimensions of Edwards III policy implementation: communication, resources, disposition, and bureaucratic structure. The study used a descriptive qualitative approach with seven purposively selected informants. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation and analyzed using the interactive model of Miles et al. The results showed that communication and bureaucratic structure generally supported the implementation of OSS-RBA, while limited resources, particularly technical training, service devices, and internet connectivity, were the main obstacles. Conversely, the commitment and responsiveness of the apparatus were important supporting factors through the provision of assistance services. Of the 6,690 NIBs issued between 2023 and March 2026, 6,677 (99.8%) were processed through assistance services, indicating that assistance from officials maintains service access while reflecting users' high reliance on direct assistance. This study confirms that successful digital licensing requires strengthening local government implementation capacity in addition to providing digital platforms, and reinforces the relevance of the Edwards III model in the context of digital government.