The examination of the correlation among digitalization, institutions, and territorial changes is a crucial area of focus for research concerning the latest technological advancements (Brynjolfsson and Kahin, 2002; Carlsson, 2004; Jadaan, 2019; Haefner and Sternberg, 2020). In addition, recent studies on this subject have emphasized the significance of territorial capital, local resources, and the integration of smart specialization as a fundamental component in territorial strategies.

However, two major related aspects require further and more accurate research:

The role and function of institutions in managing the territorial changes related to the digitalization process. Digitalization may be viewed as an external institutional and territorial disruption, through the conflict between the institutions that block digitalization and those that generate the need for institutional innovation (new laws, new contracts, new behaviors, practices, values).

Evaluating the spatial disparities in digitalization. The capacity of governance systems to incorporate in their strategic policies multidimensional elements suitable for the constantly changing contexts is a key factor that can make the differences between territories.