One core aim of the project is to study the variations in local digital governance modes in China and why these modes evolved in different ways. We will analyze if and how industrial structures, local leaders’ incentives, civil society and other factors help to explain the variation in local digital governance. We also analyze how digital technologies are integrated into different policy areas and with what effects.

Despite strong advocacy by the Chinese central government, digital governance has been implemented unevenly across different regions in China. Even within the same province, different prefectures show significant variations in efforts and enthusiasm in pushing forward digital governance agenda.

1. What are the patterns of local digital governance adaptation?
2. What factors are correlated with the variations of local digital governance adaptation?