An Investigation of Antecedents for Data Governance Adoption in the Rail Industry—Findings From a Case Study at Thales

The role of data governance is experiencing a paradigm shift as organizations increasingly incorporate data governance to encourage the strategic utilization of data and, therefore, promote data-driven innovation. However, the opportunities arising from technological advancements and novel value propositions based on data come with implications that often stem from external and internal contingent factors, e.g., industry characteristics or organizational structures. In combination with inadequate practices regarding the conduct of data, difficulties in the adoption of data governance can increase. This article draws upon established practices from information technology governance and organizational theory, specifically contingency theory, to examine occurring antecedents in the adoption of data governance at Thales Ground Transportation Systems, a manufacturer of solutions for the railway infrastructure. By investigating the nomological link between antecedents, adoption, and consequences, associated implications for data governance can be taken into account in early phases of adoption to promote data-driven innovation. The article proposes new antecedents evolving from interorganizational dynamics such as data collaborations in the respective ecosystem.