Exploring Driving Factors of Digital Transformation among Local Governments: Foundations for Smart City Construction in China

Jianying Xiao, Lixin Han and Hui Zhang ()
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Jianying Xiao: School of Public Policy & Management, Research Center of Digital Rural Services, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
Lixin Han: School of Public Policy & Management, Research Center of Digital Rural Services, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China
Hui Zhang: School of Public Policy & Management, Research Center of Digital Rural Services, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China

Sustainability, 2022, vol. 14, issue 22, 1-16

Abstract: To achieve sustainable urban development, many countries around the world are exploring the path of smart cities. The progress and development of digital technology has paved a promising road. Digital transformation of the government is an important factor for smart cities in China. Scholars are increasingly interested in the digital transformation of government, but there is little empirical research on the driving factors of digital transformation among local governments. Based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework, this study explores the driving factors of digital transformation among local governments in China. A questionnaire survey and the structural equation model were used. Technological readiness, organizational efficiency, public service delivery, citizens’ expectations and superior pressure are significant driving factors. Technological readiness is the first factor affecting the government’s digital transformation. Applying the identified drivers, the results of this research could be used as orientation towards, and provide concrete practical approaches for, successful digital transformation among local governments, which would lay a foundation for smart city construction.

Keywords: digital transformation; local governments; smart cities; driving factors; TOE framework (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (5)

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