Generating Value in Data Ecosystems: The Ontological Characteristics of Data as Enablers of Data-driven Value Propositions

The unique characteristics of data require rethinking how firms develop new value propositions. Viewing data as a static resource, as current information systems (IS) literature does, is insufficient; instead, it must be seen as a dynamic, co-constructed asset embedded in evolving data ecosystems. This study explores how data characteristics enable such value propositions through a qualitative case study of a healthcare infrastructure provider. Findings reveal a dual model: a platform supporting care delivery, and a data-driven proposition offering insights from patient-generated data. Thematic analysis identifies four core data characteristics (recontextualization, editability, portability, and non-rivalry) each linked to empirical patterns that explain how data underpins value generation. The study contributes to the literature on data ecosystems by revealing the ontological characteristics of data as enablers of data-driven value propositions, while offering practical guidance for firms leveraging digital data for strategic advantage.