In this study, we conducted a comparative study on user’s perception and behavior on public system service (PSS) using institutionalism theory and MGA (multi-group analysis) methodology. In particular, this study focuses on how institutional isomorphism is applied to public system services and how MGA can be implemented correctly in a variance based SEM (structural equation model) such as PLS (partial least square). A data set of 496 effective responses was collected from pubic system users and an empirical research was conducted using three segmented models categorized by public proximity theory (public firms = 113, government contractors = 210, private contractors = 173). For rigorous group comparisons, each model was estimated by the same indicators and approaches. PLS-SEM was used in testing research hypotheses, followed by parametric and non-parametric PLS-MGA procedures in testing categorical moderation effects. This study applied novel procedures for testing composite measurement invariance prior to multi-group comparisons. The following main results and implications are drawn : 1) Partial measurement invariance was established. Multi-group analysis can be done by decomposed models although data can not be pooled for one integrated model. 2) Multi-group analysis using various approaches showed that proximity to public sphere moderated some hypothesized paths from quality dimensions to user satisfaction, which means that categorical moderating effects were partially supported. 3) Careful attention should be given to the selection of statistical test methods and the interpretation of the results of multi-group analysis, taking into account the different outcomes of the PLS-MGA test methods and the low statistical power of the moderating effect. It is necessary to use various methods such as comparing the difference in the path coefficient significance and the significance of the path coefficient difference between the groups. 4) Substantial differences in the perceptions and behaviors of PSS users existed according to proximity to public sphere, including the significance of path coefficients, mediation and categorical moderation effects. 5) The paper also provides detailed analysis and implication from a new institutional perspective. This study using a novel and appropriate methodology for performing group comparisons would be useful for researchers interested in comparative studies employing institutionalism theory and PLS-SEM multi-group analysis technique.