Governance mechanisms to realise openness in data platform ecosystems

Abstract

Data platforms, facilitating the trade of data, face challenges in balancing openness and control. This challenge arises for platform providers, given data owners' preference for control and consumers' need for safeguards. Governance mechanisms that reconcile these tensions are crucial for enabling openness in data platforms. This study aims to identify the Governance Mechanisms that enable openness in data platform ecosystems and reconcile the tension between openness and control. Drawing on a framework for the governance of digital platform ecosystems, it categorizes crucial mechanisms into Platform Boundary Resources, Platform Rules, and Ecosystem Identity. The framework has been validated and refined through 10 semi-structured interviews with subject matter
experts to its applicability for Data Platform Ecosystems. The results show that while most governance mechanisms are validated, this does not hold true for every dimension and mechanism. In addition, new governance mechanisms and data-specific mechanisms are introduced by the participants. The research underscores the significance of customised approaches in overseeing openness within data platforms, considering their unique context and ecosystem-specific requirements.

Date of Award	4 Feb 2024
Original language	English
Supervisor	Samaneh Bagheri (Examiner) & Khoi Nguyen (Co-assessor)