Debate: Bridging technology and organization: a socio-technical checklist for AI readiness in the public sector

The growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in public administration holds significant transformative potential but also raises concerns about the actual preparedness of public organizations and their employees. Adopting a socio-technical perspective, the article examines AI readiness in the public sector, arguing that successful AI adoption depends not only on adequate technological infrastructure but also on individual competencies, motivation, and organizational adaptability. It introduces a practical checklist for public managers, structured around four key dimensions: individual readiness, organizational readiness, job design, and ethical and transparency considerations. The tool aims to foster critical reflection and structured action toward responsible and effective AI implementation, bridging the gap between technological innovation and organizational capability in public sector contexts.