The aim of this study is to develop a theoretical framework for blockchain, operations in particular. Furthermore, we aim to identify the main drivers and barriers of digital innovation and explore the general possibilities of blockchain applications within the maritime industry. A case study approach is applied: the Norwegian offshore industry. Primary data is collected through interviews, while secondary data is collected from industrial and company reports, the Internet, and national and international media reports. We have discovered that cost reduction intentions, the high level of regulation in the maritime industry, and the large amount of data that maritime companies should process, along with the intention to work more effectively, are the main drivers of digital innovation. On the other hand, the high cost of implementation, the bad quality of Internet connections offshore, the old age of decision-makers, the technology-oriented culture, the lack of investment initiatives, the low level of blockchain diffusion through the supply chain, and risk aversion are the main barriers. The results of the qualitative study show that some of the barriers and motives of digital innovation and the introduction to blockchain technology were pointed out by earlier studies. However, we have identified several unique drivers and barriers specific to the industry. Finally, the blockchain process framework is developed.
This study contributes to the understanding of how trust based on perceived ability, benevolence, and integrity functions in networks. It adopts a mixed-method approach with quantitative and qualitative data from five Norwegian innovation networks. The study demonstrates how trust based on perceived benevolence, ability, and integrity influences different aspects of network interaction and network outcomes against the background of the network members' perceptions of risk. Moreover, it finds that these dimensions of trust function differently at the inter-organisational and at the network level. The former level here concerns trust between the organisations in the network, while the latter concerns trust in the network more generally. Benevolence-based trust is identified as particularly salient at both levels for promoting open and honest communication as well as knowledge sharing, enabling both more successful collaboration in general, and more innovation specifically.
This paper develops a framework for the orchestrating process of networks of independent small- and medium-size enterprises (SMEs). The existing literature on network orchestration is developed for large networks with a dominant hub firm managing up to 500 members. We argue that SME networks need a somewhat different approach to orchestration. We find the literature on communities of practice appropriate to that aim. The empirical base is a longitudinal study of the development of HealthInnovation, a regional network of independent SMEs. Originally, the network emerged as “a good idea” in the regional university, but it soon proved to be poorly rooted in the regional industry and in the public sector. Nonetheless, as a result of intensive orchestration, it has become a dynamic and innovative network with several important results: two new firms, several new research and innovation projects, and the development of a new subject at the university. In this study, we ask: What are the processes of successfully orchestrating innovative SME networks? We maintain that in order to successfully orchestrate such networks, the orchestration process consists of managing knowledge mobility, managing innovation appropriability, managing network stability, and managing network health. Managing network health is our specific contribution. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2011Network orchestration, Network leadership, Network failure, SME networks, Communities of practice,
This longitudinal empirical case study develops a new framework for the role of the orchestrator of networks of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The SME network under study is followed during six years, through five stages of its lifecycle, and demonstrates the complex and multifaceted nature of the role of the network orchestrator. Various roles are needed for the various stages in order to achieve network retention and sustainability. This multifaceted role is found to encompass the roles as knowledge broker, innovation broker, network entrepreneur and leader and strategist, where the latter emerges as the most salient. The similarities with the role of a firm manager seem paradoxial in light of the dominating view of network management, characterized by the concept of distributed and collective leadership.
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