Key Characteristics of Digital Ecosystems in Politics

  The paper discusses the main approaches to understanding the ecosystem phenomenon. The evolution of its interpretation is demonstrated. The authors characterize various approaches to understanding digital ecosystems, their main elements, characteristic features, features, as well as the main mechanisms for creating ecosystem values. The main types of digital eco-systems are given, depending on the type of ownership, among which centralized, decentralized and consortium-type ecosystems are distinguished. Conclusions are drawn about the ability of digital ecosystems to perform an intermediary function in the process of interaction between authorities and citizens, coordination of their opinions and priorities, and decisionmaking. The key threats associated with the transition of civic activity to an online environment are demonstrated. Based on the conducted research, the authors draw conclusions about the possibilities and features of studying digital ecosystems in politics. The authors argue that for a correct understanding of the phenomenon of the digital ecosystem, it is necessary to understand its structural components, the nature of their interaction with each other, as well as its desire to dominate social reality. The article highlights 10 key characteristics of the political digital ecosystem that can effectively perform their functions and act as actors in the political space (provide access to a wide range of services based on a single platform; ensure the unification of a large number of participants based on the principles of mutually beneficial relations; be based on a single account (access to all services of the platform is possible through a single account); represent a single brand for all services and infrastructure elements; provide multi-channel representation and interaction (website, application, groups in social networks, etc.); be aimed at meeting a wide range of socio-political needs of a person, from obtaining that or other information reference before the possibility to influence the decision-making in the place of residence (city, region or country); to provide the possibility of flexible changes in the structure of the ecosystem, involving constant interaction of members and their cooperation; to provide an opportunity for deliberative (deliberative) discussion and participation; to provide the possibility of building elements of the architecture of the digital services system based on their interconnection and close integration; to ensure openness and modularity).