What configuration paths lead to a high utilization level of open government data (OGD) portals?

Purpose This study aims to improve the utilization levels of provincial open government data (OGD) portals in China by examining the key factors and pathways that influence their utilization. Design/methodology/approach The study employs the technology–organization–environment theoretical framework and combines necessary condition analysis (NCA) with the fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). This mixed-method approach is used to analyze necessary and sufficient causal relationships and to identify the key factors affecting the utilization levels of 16 provincial OGD portals in China. Findings The results show no single necessary and sufficient condition that determines the utilization levels of provincial OGD portals. Instead, three independent variables – data resource development level, data portal development level and organizational readiness – are key factors influencing these levels. The study also identifies four pathways that lead to high utilization levels of provincial OGD portals and provides detailed analyses of typical case studies. Originality/value The originality of this study lies in its innovative methodological application, combining the NCA method with fsQCA to empirically investigate the utilization levels of OGD portals. This approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the factors and pathways that enhance OGD portal utilization. Still, this study had a small sample size and used static cross-sectional data, which could affect the selection of independent variables.