Digital Transformation Maturity in Urban Management Organizations: A Qualitative Systematic Review

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the dimensions, requirements, and key factors influencing digital transformation maturity in urban management organizations based on a systematic review of the literature. This research employed a qualitative systematic review using inductive content analysis. Data were collected through a comprehensive search of major academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, SID, and Civilica. Studies related to digital transformation, digital maturity, urban management, and smart cities were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. After screening, 20 eligible articles were analyzed using NVivo version 14. Data analysis involved open coding, categorization of subthemes, and development of main themes, with theoretical saturation serving as the cutoff point for article selection. The findings revealed four main categories that shape digital transformation maturity in urban management: technological and infrastructural foundations, digital leadership and organizational culture, digital services and citizen experience, and digital governance and inter-organizational integration. The results indicate that robust data-driven infrastructure, transformational leadership, a culture supportive of change, digital competencies of employees, innovation in smart services, data transparency, and institutional coordination are critical enablers of digital maturity. Moreover, citizen satisfaction, data security, and process standardization emerged as essential outcomes and prerequisites of mature digital transformation. This study demonstrates that digital transformation maturity in urban management is a multidimensional and evolutionary process that requires synergy among technological, human, and governance factors. The findings provide valuable insights for urban managers and policymakers to design effective strategies, enhance the maturity of digital initiatives, and accelerate the development of smart cities.