Full papers
Analysis of Motives for Alliance Formation Using Total Interpretive Structural Modelling (125)
Author/s: Harchitwan Kaur Lamba Sanjay Dhir
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: strategic alliances, motives, bibliometric analysis, total interpretive structural modelling (TISM), hierarchical modelling
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine existing literature on motives for formation of strategic alliances to map the authors, ascertain co-citational links between them, and to estimate the most studied motives and understand the linkages existing between them. A database of 72 articles published in research journals was taken from Scopus. To gain a deeper understanding of the strategic motives, the 8 most studied motives were selected and total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) was performed. The scope for this study is limited to the database of papers available on Scopus. For academics, this study provides further insights into the motives for formation of strategic alliance, their interaction and interplay with each other, and interpretation of the relationships between motives. For practitioners, it helps in understanding how and why individual motives impact one another, in order to improve decision making for managers leading firms into alliances.
Interaction of Alliance Governance and Inter-partner Diversity: Mechanisms to Realize Good Performance of Alliances (266)
Author/s: Hiroshi Yasuda
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Alliance governance, contractual governance, relational governance, inter-partner diversity, alliance performance
Abstract: This study discusses the interaction of alliance governance and inter-partner diversity by considering two forms of alliance governance, namely contractual governance and relational governance, as well as two types of inter-partner diversity, namely diversity of corporate culture and diversity of capabilities. Based on the empirical analysis using the data of 457 alliance samples from survey to alliance managers, the study clarified that contractual governance is effective in governing diversity of capabilities, while relational governance is effective in governing diversity of corporate culture. It was also clarified that other approaches to govern the diversities are counterproductive. The results of this study show the importance of matching a proper alliance governance to inter-partner diversity in realizing good performance of alliances.
Strategic Alliance Research in the New Era (332)
Author/s: Qile He Maureen Meadows Duncan Angwin Emanuel Gomes John Child
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Strategic alliance, problematizing, future research
Abstract: Rapid changes in the wider business environment suggest it is time to review the theoretical and practical insights of research into Strategic Alliances in the New Era. This is achieved by problematizing strategic alliance research, by offering alternative visions towards theoretical underpinnings and fresh applications of existing theoretical perspectives, leading to new observations and findings concerning strategic alliance management. This conceptual paper will stimulate multidisciplinary debate and discussion on emerging paradoxes and challenges facing contemporary firms during the formation, development, optimization and resolution of multiphase processes of strategic alliances.
Trust and Distrust in Nigerian Supply Chain Networks (351)
Author/s: Kingsley Obi Omeihe Mohammad Saud Khan Issac Oduro Amoako Veronika Gustafsson
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Trust, Distrust, Supply-Chain, Nigeria
Abstract: Abstract
Purpose- To date, most of the literature on trust and distrust reveal a paucity of studies about Nigerian Supply chain relationships. Specifically, this paper attempts to address this gap by examining how trust is developed and repaired in supply chain relationships.
Design/methodology/approach- Within the scope of this paper, an interpretivist approach was adopted in response to calls for qualitative studies on supply chain relationships. Face to face semi-structured interviews with 12 supplier/customers active in Nigerian trade provided insights into the importance of trust and distrust in enduring supply chain relationships. Data was analysed using iterations from interviews held with the respondents. These iterations demonstrate the key role trust plays in developing and maintaining supply chain relationships whereas distrust deters cooperative relationships.
Findings- Key factors were considered in developing an understanding of how trust and distrust mechanisms affect the coordination of supply chain performance. Three distinct types of trust-calculus based trust (CBT), identification based trust (IBT) and knowledge based trust (KBT) are considered to play an important role in maintaining and developing fruitful relationships. Conversely, the repair of two levels of distrust-calculus based distrust and identification based distrust is crucial to enduring supply chain relationships.
Research limitations/implications- The importance of taking trust and distrust seriously stems from its unique contextual embeddedness. This study fills a gap in the literature by providing insights into how potential customers and suppliers can leverage on trust to improve their supply chain capacities while suggesting remedial actions when trust is violated.
Originality- The paper enriches the view that trust and distrust are crucial in explaining Nigerian supply chain relationships. In a broader context, the complementary relationships between both mechanisms highlight the social advantage of trusting behaviour in overall performance of supply chains.
Analysis Of Globalisation And Emerging Trends In Economic Environment: Lessons From Acps Group (386)
Author/s: Kenneth Nwokocha Arc. Remygius Kelechi Nwokocha
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Globalisation, hyper-globalist, emerging trends, ACP
Abstract: Globalisation is an ongoing process that has created emerging trends by altering the economic, political, legal, social cultural values as well as the pace of technological developments in many nations across the globe, especially, the African Caribbean and Pacific States ACPS. This paper adopted the qualitative case study method and offered an updated review on globalisation and its emerging trends in the economic environment. It appraised the effects of globalisation and the experiences of the ACP states from 2000 to 2018 and examined the ACPS projected coping agenda change from 2015 and beyond. The article analysed the economic, technological, political and legal dimensions about the effects of globalisation among the ACP States. Based on the hyperglobalists standpoint, the paper highlighted the challenges confronting the ACPS and discussed the vulnerable experiences of this regional economic block owing to exposure to the forces of domination by the developed economies. It recommends that the ACPS should develop some coping strategies with enhanced negotiating power and brace up with the myriad of technological, economic, financial and geopolitical challenges facing them and become a formidable regional economic block of comparable strengths with the Europe America and the BRICS.
Keywords: Globalisation, hyper-globalist, emerging trends, ACP
Value Creation in Education Company Partnership: Case Study (423)
Author/s: Merja Anneli Manninen
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Business model, customer relationships, education, strategic partnership, value creation
Abstract: Public private partnerships and cooperation between universities and companies have been studied widely. Universities of applied sciences and their role in supporting small and medium sized enterprises has also long been on the agenda. The aim of this study was to understand value creation in partnership with secondary level vocational education provider and companies. The focus was in describing and understanding the future products/services and expectation for partnerships. The qualitative case study focused on cooperation with forerunner companies in service sector. Future value lies in competence development, competence gap detection as well learner support functions. Companies will increasingly be looking for outside resources in their recruitment, competence management as well as service development schemes. They are also ready to bring the partnership into strategic level. Apart from common value creation ground, developing its own processes was essential for education provider. Defining strategic aim and business model would support this development.
Shaping Meaning about Joint Action in Meta-Organisational Meetings (503)
Author/s: Jane Webb
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Inter-organizational collaboration, meta-organizations, practice studies, collaborative innovation, meetings
Abstract: Collaboration between different organisations creates a new organisation made up of organisations a meta organisation. In meta organisations, where there is scope for experimentation and innovation, dialogue about the meaning of joint action is ongoing. I explore meta organisational meetings as spaces that support representatives from different organisations to shape meaning about joint action. I draw on a two year ethnographic study of a partnership of fifteen organisations that worked together to test and develop electric buses and related infrastructure live within the public transport system of a Scandinavian city. I consider a conversation between a group of senior leaders representing member organisations that was orchestrated by the coordinators of the meta organisation. Engaging in relationally responsive practices, the participants inquire into what they can do collectively and what this means for the meta organisation. The paper makes clearer how meetings offer a site for understanding more of meaning making about the joint action of meta organising.
Offshore outsourcing innovation in SMEs: A 4F perspective of Governance (562)
Author/s: Ahmad Khraishi Fahin Huq Antony Paulraj
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: SMEs, Outsourcing innovation, Offshoring, Contract complexity, Relational trust, Governance Types
Abstract: This study examines the effect of contractual and relational governance alternatives on offshore outsourcing innovation (OOI) performance in SMEs. We develop four governance types involving contract complexity and relational trust - fit, firm, flexible, and fragile (4F). Each type has different capacity of outsourcing efficiency and innovation adaptability. Our analysis of 200 dyadic OOI relationships among SMEs in Germany, Italy, United Kingdom (UK) and France suggests that, in practice, SMEs choose to maximise and balance both contract complexity and relational trust to enhance OOI outcomes. Findings from this research inform that detailed and complex contracts and extensive relational trust are more than necessary conditions for the establishment, continuation and success of OOI relationships. In addition, our results indicate that the robustness of governance mechanisms of interfirm OOI can be strengthened through partnering factors (e.g. formal knowledge routines, supplier joint actions), which can significantly contribute to shaping OOI performance.
An Emic Approach To An Indigenous Concept Of Business And Social Networking (650)
Author/s: David Weir Sa'ad Ali
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: N/A
Abstract: This paper reviews the background and cultural implications of Wasta business networking distinguishing its various different meanings and their implications for business conduct. It points out that some interpretations of Wasta as inextricably related to corruption, bribe taking and seeking illegitimate advantage in contested business situations associated with a traditional or tribal social structure. Actually derive from a western centred framework and are applied in an Etic manner. It then applies an Emic approach to interpreting results from original fieldwork in the Jordan banking sector.
Transferring Knowledge For Innovation Through Partnership Between University & Technology-Based Small Firms (TBSFs): A Social Capital Perspective (710)
Author/s: Nor Hafizah Yusup Marie Griffiths Susantha Udagedara R.M.U.
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: University-industry collaboration, university-industry partnership, knowledge transfer, social capital, innovation
Abstract: Building upon forty-three semi-structured interviews with universities partnership with technology-based small firms (TBSFs) for knowledge transfer in the United Kingdom, this study explores how social capital influences knowledge transfer in fostering innovation in TBSFs. Accordingly, the study advances the knowledge-based view of innovation by using the social capital theory to explore the implications and complexities associated with knowledge transfer within the context of university-TBSFs partnerships. Our findings indicate that structural, relational and cognitive elements of social capital significantly influence the knowledge transfer between university and TBSFs and set up the platform for innovation. We found that strong ties, friendship-based relationship, reciprocal, norms and trusted relationship with partners are crucial in facilitating knowledge transfer to achieve innovation outcome. Result also indicates that cognitive aspects create meaningful communication and support knowledge transfer within the partnership.
The Impact Of Social Capital On Economic Value Creation: A Conceptual Model For The Study Of SMEs In The UK Construction Industry (723)
Author/s: Julian D. Riano
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Social Capital, Value Creation, Strategy, Networks, SMEs
Abstract: This conceptual article argues that firms strategies are enhanced and economic value created as a result of social capital SC benefits. Such matter is essential for small and medium sized firms SMEs which represent over 99 of all firms in the UK. Even more for those in the construction industry in the UK which have seen their 5 year survival rates diminished from 50.3, for businesses established in 2004, to 42.9 for those established in 2012. Previous conceptual models linking SC and value creation have focused on intellectual capital, resource exchange, hierarchical relations, and relationship value, but not on firm strategy enhancement and economic VC as a result of SC benefits. Evaluating previous management research methodologies, this article, and other scholars, recognize a lack of mixed method approaches. Hence, the contribution of this article is twofold, first, to highlight the essential role of SC benefits as the foundational role toward economic VC and firm strategy enhancement. Second, to describe a continuous cyclical model for firm strategy enhancement and economic VC as a result of SC benefits.
The Dance of Power and Trust- Exploring Micro-Foundational Dimensions in the Development of Global Health Partnership (773)
Author/s: Swetketu Patnaik Vijay Pereira Yama Temouri Ashish Malik Mohammad Roohanifar
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Micro foundational perspective, Neglected diseases, Malaria, Public-Private Partnership Drug Development, Strategic Choice
Abstract: The global health system has significantly evolved over the last 30 years, particularly since the UN Millennium Declaration in 2000. The transformation in global healthcare partnerships has been most visible in the area of neglected tropical diseases. Numerous strategic partnerships between different actors, including pharmaceutical companies, global and national health institutions and philanthropic organisations and disease specific foundations populate the landscape of neglected tropical diseases. Our research uses a rich longitudinal case study portraying social change involving a tripartite public private partnership formed to co develop an affordable drug, for the treatment of malaria in Sub Saharan Africa. By adopting a micro foundational perspective, we analyse the strategic choices made by the Product Development Team in developing this drug and note the dynamic interplay between trust and power in underpinning the strategic choices by the Product Development Team as it co evolved and adapted to institutional changes.
Managerial Learning From Economic And Turbulent Conditions In Petrochemical Industry (819)
Author/s: Arezou Pour Mirza
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Managerial Learning, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), Turbulent Conditions, Petrochemical Industry
Abstract: This research seeks to provide fresh insights into the managerial learning of turbulent sociopolitical and economic conditions in the petrochemical industry. The study highlights the importance of various aspects of turbulent economic conditions within the petrochemical industry however, it emphasizes the role of manager as pivotal to the business success. There is a small amount of information available on the role of management under turbulent Middle Eastern petrochemical industry. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the conducting business interactions in a complex, volatile condition such as the Iranian Petrochemical Commercial Company PCC with many economic and technical challenges. The data collected from interviews were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis IPA. The determinant that appeared to dramatically affect the firms survival was found to be the managements competence. This study provides evidence for future orientated learning outcomes, enhancing awareness and preparedness of the firms for future activities.
Characterising Inter-Organisational Relationships within Organisational Ecosystems: Towards a New Data Structure (934)
Author/s: Jacqueline Jing You Christopher Williams
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Inter-organisational relationships, organisational boundaries, organisational ecosystems
Abstract: Organisations often collaborate with stakeholder groups such as suppliers, customers, regulators and other diverse groups to pursue shared goals that would otherwise be difficult to achieve internally. Partnerships in a wide variety of forms are known to provide opportunities for and constraints on organisations survival and growth. While this phenomenon is increasingly examined in a variety of literatures, individual theories are insufficient to capture the phenomenological complexities of inter organisational relationships, where formation involves a wide range of motives and intentions and operation comes with a plethora of contingencies. We adopt inductive theorising based on qualitative in depth interview data from twenty two cases in China in order to derive a new characterisation of inter organisational relationships. In our study, we firstly construct organisational ecosystem maps and secondly identify five key dimensions for inter organisational relationship formation and contingency controlling, aligning, energising, internalising and committing. The resulting data structure contributes by highlighting the need for theoretical sythesis in research on organisational ecosystems while providing a basis for future empirical work using a variety of methods.
Understanding Communication Breakdown Behaviour Among Alliance Parties Working on Construction Projects (973)
Author/s: May Bratby
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: communication, construction sector, alliance parties, grounded theory
Abstract:
Outsourcing non-core non-clinical services in NHS Organisations in England (1001)
Author/s: Phillip Confue
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Outsourcing, New Public Management, New Public Governance, Social Network Theory
Abstract: Outsourcing of non-core activities has been a clear trend within corporate life for over thirty years. If done well can lead to positive benefits for organisational performance. The NHS in England has gone through a process of change from traditional public administration to new public management and now to new public governance. These approaches should have encouraged NHS managers to look at the opportunities that out sourcing could offer, instead there has been a cultural backlash with a resistance to consider out sourcing in anything but the most periphery of areas such as estates and maintenance functions. The organisational culture of the NHS is such that outsourcing in any form is resisted rather than embraced as an opportunity to improve productivity.
The paper after exploring the different public sector management approaches then goes on to consider the example of an option appraisal by senior managers in Cornwall where consideration is given to outsourcing some non-core services along with a range of other options, which provides an example of the attitude of NHS senior managers.
Executive Interlocks And Executive Compensation During Institutional Transition (1029)
Author/s: Lin Jiang Gerhard Kling
Track: Inter-Organisational Collaboration: Partnerships, Alliances and Networks
Paper Type: Full Papers
Keywords: Interlocking directorship, Executive compensation, Managerial power, institutional transitions, China
Abstract: The long-lasting debate in executive interlocking has been dominated by two competing theories, resource dependence theory and managerial power theory. By extending the debate into transitional context, our results evidence that powerful executives may cultivate ties with other firms to extract personal benefits at the cost of shareholders, supporting managerial power perspective. Further, we suggest that institutional context plays an important role in explaining executive networks. In Chinese context, government involvement still outweighs marketization in shaping organisational behaviours. Private firms are more likely to pay higher compensation to executives with interlock ties than state-owned firms. In general, our study advances both network research and compensation research by considering the moderating effect of institutional transitions.