Study on the urban digital transformation gyroscope model

Purpose Urban digital transformation has become a key strategy in global countries. This study aims to provide a comprehensive and dynamic exploration of the intrinsic traits associated with urban digital transformation, in order to yield detailed insights that can contribute to the formulation of well-informed decisions and strategies in the field of urban development initiatives. Design/methodology/approach Through analysis of parallels between urban digital transformation and gyroscope motion in physics, the study developed the urban digital transformation gyroscope model (UDTGM), which comprises of seven core elements. With the balanced panel dataset from 268 cities at and above the prefecture level in China, we validate the dynamic mechanism of this model. Findings The findings of this study underscore that the collaboration among infrastructure development, knowledge-driven forces and economic operations markedly bolsters the urban digital transformation gyroscope’s efficacy. Practical implications This research introduces a groundbreaking framework for comprehending urban digital transformation, potentially facilitating its balanced and systemic practical implementation. Originality/value This study pioneers the UDTGM theoretically and verifies the dynamic mechanism of this model with real data.