Beyond technology in smart cities: a multivocal literature review on data governance

Abstract

PurposeSmart cities require data governance to articulate data sharing and use among relevant stakeholders. Given the lack of a comprehensive examination of this research topic, this study aims to review data governance publications to detect and categorize endeavors backing up data sharing in smart cities.Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review was conducted, and 568 academic and professional sources were identified, but finally, only 10 relevant papers were selected.FindingsResults reveal that data governance must be based on well-defined mechanisms, procedures and roles to achieve accountability and responsibility in a multi-actor environment. Moreover, data governance should be adapted to address power imbalances among all interested parties.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitation is the list of sources considered for the literature review. However, this study provides a holistic overview for researchers and professionals willing to know more about smart city data sharing.Originality/valueThis review identifies the data governance approaches supporting data sharing in smart cities, analyzes their data dimension, enhances the state-of-the-art literature on this topic and suggests possible areas for future research.