Abstract

What are the differences in issue definition of digital government across provinces? How do we explain these differences? Based on the big data analysis of provincial party newspapers，this study explores the dynamic features and driving forces of issue definition of digital government at provincial levels. The findings reveal that: first，provincial governments define digital government more as a comprehensive issue in recent years. Second，there exist differences in the patterns of issue definition between eastern and middle/western provinces. Third，issue definition of digital government are motivated by contextual factors，such as public opinions，instead of officials’ characteristics. By focusing on the initial stage of policy process，this study proposes a new perspective to analyze digital government in China.

Citation

Fan Z.T. (2021). Issue Definition of Digital Government: Dynamic Features and Driving Forces —— Evidence from Big Data Analysis of Provincial Party Newspapers. Chinese Public Administration, 1, 42-51.