Fixing frictions: ‘sludge audits’ around the world
How governments are using behavioural science to reduce psychological burdens in public
services
Governments worldwide are increasingly adopting behavioural science methodologies
to address "sludge" – the unjustified frictions impeding people' access to government
services and exacerbating psychological burdens. Sludge audits, grounded in behavioural
science, provide a structured approach for identifying, quantifying, and preventing
sludge in public services and government processes. This document delineates Good
Practice Principles, derived from ten case studies conducted during the International
Sludge Academy, aimed at promoting the integration of sludge audit methodologies into
public governance and service design. By enhancing government efficiency and bolstering
public trust in government, these principles contribute to the broader agenda on administrative
simplification, digital services, and public sector innovation.