An organizational and management model for city digital transformation based on the Data-Driven Governance concept

Abstract

Digital transformation in cities is a priority that is currently evaluated through digital maturity ratings. However, existing approaches remain fragmented and lack a unified management framework, which hinders the achievement of top rankings. Based on a systems approach, scenario planning, and organizational design, this article develops an organizational and management model anchored in Data-Driven Governance principles. The study analyzes the current standing of the city of Tyumen within the federal ratings established by the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media and the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Utilities of the Russian Federation. Furthermore, it proposes a three-level management architecture that integrates a Strategic Council (for goals and KPIs), a Data Management Center (for analytics), and a Working Committee (for project implementation). The architecture for the unified city portal "Smart City Tyumen" was designed as the core of a digital ecosystem for data collection, citizen feedback, and service integration. Within this model, the Industrial University of Tyumen is identified as a center of expertise, a provider of human resources, and a platform for pilot testing. The proposed model demonstrates a shift from fragmented technological solutions toward an integrated, self-learning management system with potential for scalability across other municipalities. This model provides the basis for the systematic management of a city's digital transformation and the achievement of target indicators in federal ratings.