Convergence or divergence? Trends in the digitalisation index cluster over the years

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FİDAN Ü.

Regional Statistics, cilt.14, sa.6, ss.1050-1068, 2024 (ESCI) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 14 Sayı: 6
  • Basım Tarihi: 2024
  • Doi Numarası: 10.15196/rs140602
  • Dergi Adı: Regional Statistics
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, Business Source Elite, Business Source Premier, Central & Eastern European Academic Source (CEEAS)
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1050-1068
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: cluster analysis, data analytics, DESI dimensions, digitalisation, European Union
  • Uşak Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This study examines the digitalisation levels of European countries between 2017 and 2022 using the digital economy and society index (DESI). In this study, four main dimensions of the DESI were considered. Initially, hierarchical and non-hierarchical clustering analysis methods were used to group countries according to similar digitalisation levels. Then, the stability of clusters and transitions between clusters were determined by applying association rule analysis. Findings show that European countries are clustered at five levels of digitalisation. Most countries have remained in the same cluster over the years, while some countries have moved to neighbouring clusters. Moreover, common digitalisation characteristics of the countries in each cluster are revealed. The results of this study will guide countries in evaluating their digitalisation levels and devising strategies. This study is expected to contribute to policymakers’ decision-making processes in the field of digital transformation.