Engaging in Data Ecosystems: Propositions for Design Characteristics to Foster Value Co-Creation

Abstract

Data ecosystems are gaining traction as key constructs for innovation, collaboration, and co-creation of value. Existing research has predominantly focused on the design of data ecosystems (e.g., incentive mechanisms, governance, or business models) on an institutional level. Surprisingly, actor engagement as the microfoundation for value co-creation has only received very little attention. To advance our understanding of this crucial factor for ecosystem success, we conduct a multiple case study across three real-world data ecosystems. We examine the characteristics of the cases, analyze the observable engagement behavior within each case, and apply a cross-case analysis to derive six propositions for data ecosystem design characteristics that foster value co-creation. Thus, we contribute to unraveling the complex dynamics of data ecosystems with a set of hypotheses that encourage participation and collaboration for more effective value co-creation in emerging data ecosystems.