Abstract: Public data authorization operation is a data development and utilization approach with Chinese characteristics. Analyzing the differentiated practical paths in various regions is of great significance for exploring and forming replicable, easily-promoted and sustainable data circulation and utilization operation models. Based on the information ecology theory, this paper conducts a configuration analysis of 25 cities that have carried out public data authorization operations using csQCA. The research finds that data quality and the official information field are necessary conditions for good public data authorization operation effects. Government-led early practice type, government-coordinated data empowerment type and market-driven ecological empowerment type are three paths with good practical effects, while system-to-be-built type and data system shortcoming type are two paths with poor practical effects. Data has dual attributes of private goods and public goods. Market-oriented and centralized systems are needed to guarantee different stages of data operation. Each region should choose an appropriate authorization operation path in line with its local conditions based on the data ecosystem.

Key words: Public data, Public data authorization operation, csQCA, Data development and utilization, Adapting measures to local conditions