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

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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
    The Research Center for Transition Development and Rural Revitalization of Resource-Based Cities in China, 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)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Jianying Xiao & Lixin Han & Hui Zhang, 2022. "Exploring Driving Factors of Digital Transformation among Local Governments: Foundations for Smart City Construction in China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(22), pages 1-16, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:22:p:14980-:d:971068
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Shuguang Wang & Xuefu Sun & Shen Zhong, 2023. "Exploring the Multiple Paths to Improve the Construction Level of Digital Government: Qualitative Comparative Analysis Based on the WSR Framework," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(13), pages 1-21, June.
    3. Jonathan Jacob Paul Latupeirissa & Ni Luh Yulyana Dewi & I Kadek Rian Prayana & Melati Budi Srikandi & Sahri Aflah Ramadiansyah & Ida Bagus Gde Agung Yoga Pramana, 2024. "Transforming Public Service Delivery: A Comprehensive Review of Digitization Initiatives," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(7), pages 1-23, March.
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    5. Enji Li & Qing Chen & Xinyan Zhang & Chen Zhang, 2023. "Digital Government Development, Local Governments’ Attention Distribution and Enterprise Total Factor Productivity: Evidence from China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-19, January.

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