Integrated governance in data ecosystems: A conceptual framework consolidating collaborative and data governance

The potential benefits deriving from inter-organizational data sharing have increased over time, leading to an intensified interest in data ecosystems. The governance of these endeavors depends on both collaborative and data governance dimensions. However, previous research has often treated these dimensions separately, creating silos that hinder the capacity to deliver value considering their socio-technical nature. Addressing this gap, this study investigates the intertwined relationship between these two dimensions within data ecosystems. It does so by questioning which existing and most relevant relationships exist between them, as well as the nature of these relationships. To this end, we adopt a multiple case study approach, analyzing five data ecosystems. The research led to the development of a conceptual framework for Integrated Governance, highlighting the need for a holistic socio-technical approach that addresses collaborative and data governance dimensions as intertwined. The framework unveils 24 core relationships between these dimensions in data ecosystems and provides insights on the nature of the relationships, distinguishing among causal, explanatory, concurrent, chronological, and overlapping ones. This work introduces a new perspective in the academic discourse on data sharing providing actionable insights for practitioners and enabling them to design and manage data ecosystems more effectively.