Speker Bio:

Bendik Bygstad is a professor at the Department of Informatics at the University of Oslo and an adjunct professor at our department. His research focuses on digital innovation and digital ecosystems, and he has published more than 150 research articles. Bendik is also an active communicator and regularly contributes to the public debate on digitalization.

Abstract:

The rapid growth of global platform companies like Apple and Google has transformed the IT sector and reshaped the global economy. In parallel—though less dramatically—national digital ecosystems have emerged. These ecosystems leverage similar technologies but operate within national, collaborative contexts.

The Norwegian Government recently launched its new digital strategy, aiming to establish a national digital ecosystem that spans sectors and administrative levels. This initiative seeks to enhance data sharing, drive service development, and create greater value for society. However, the strategy lacks clarity on what this ecosystem should encompass and how it should be governed. Considering this, this presentation addresses two critical questions:

• Theoretical: How can we conceptualize and theorize a national digital ecosystem?
• Practical: What governance framework is suitable for managing a national digital ecosystem?

We propose viewing a national digital ecosystem as a distinct organizational form characterized by a unique digital structure that transcends sectors, and a shared societal objective rather than profit-driven goals. Unlike commercial ecosystems focused on monetizing network effects, national digital ecosystems aim to optimize interactions for the collective benefit of all participants. Effective governance should prioritize collaboration and transparency in distributing costs and benefits. However, implementing this approach presents challenges for government agencies and public authorities.