Putting ICT (information and computer technologies) on the cloud is a phenomenon being undertaken by governments all over the world, and as a result, we’re becoming used to “citizen-centric” computing.

We now expect “services, more value, choice, transparency, and ease of use, all to be delivered through multiple channels,” according to a media piece on how Saas, cloud computing and self-service portals are transforming government websites.

Driving the trend is brand-spanking new technology, delivery systems and financial models.

Hey, here’s a thought: maybe cloud computing is driving the growth of democracy around the world! What an idea that is – as citizens’ expectations prod governments to re-think how they deliver information, provide digital conversations and services to Joe and Jane, Heinz and Gertrude or Pierre and Claudette.

In other words, as people have become used to the instantaneous nature of the Web, they now want answers and information pronto from their governments.

But government clouds need to be robust on the back end. Not least among primary features should be the capability to deliver information and communication via multiple channels. Because that’s what people use – different channels. Not everybody logs on via their desktop.

There are also issues around security and access and bandwidth, and governments, whether municipal, regional or international, should take these into consideration when choosing cloud providers.

You know, when you think of it, these are all issues that are key in private-sector cloud computing, too. Perhaps when they become less front-and-center in the private world, the change and positive results will spill over into the public.

What do you think? Have you had any good or horrible experience with government clouds?