This conceptual paper focuses on the management challenges of different types of strategic business nets. First, we propose a valuesystem continuum that forms the basis for classifying different types of strategic nets. Then, a classification of these nets is suggested and discussed with illustrative examples. This is followed by identification and analysis of the core managerial questions and capabilities required in management in strategic nets. A discussion of the theoretical and managerial implications, and of future research needs, concludes the paper. D 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
We examine network relationships, particularly the type and strength of these relationships and how firms use them in order to commercialize different types of innovations. We conduct an in–depth case study of four small firms to provide insight on how and why a portfolio of network relationships (e.g., suppliers, distributors, customers, and research institutes) helps small new innovative firms to gain resources. We develop a framework of four innovation types and expand on how successful commercialization for each innovation type requires certain types and strength of relationships. Both types (systemic and autonomous) of radical innovations require strong collaborative ties with customers, whereas incremental innovations are commercialized through different types of downstream networks.
Purpose
Relationship learning is viewed as an important factor in enhancing competitiveness and an important determinant of profitability in relationships. Prior studies have acknowledged the positive effects of interorganizational learning on performance, but the performance measures applied have varied. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between interorganizational learning and different types of performance. The paper also goes beyond direct effects by investigating the moderating effects of different research designs.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper applies a meta-analytic approach to systematically analyze 21 independent studies (N = 4,618) to reveal the relationship between interorganizational learning and performance.
Findings
The findings indicate that interorganizational learning is an important predictor of performance, and that the effects of interorganizational learning on performance differ in magnitude under different research conditions.
Research limitations/implications
The paper focuses on interorganizational learning, and during the data collection, some related topics were excluded from the data search to retain the focus on learning.
Practical implications
The study evinces the breadth of the field of interorganizational learning and how different research designs affect research results. Moreover, this meta-analysis indicates the need for greater clarity when defining the concepts used in studies and for definitions of the concepts applied in the field of interorganizational learning to be unified.
Originality/value
This study is the first to meta-analytically synthesize literature on interorganizational learning. It also illuminates new perspectives for future studies within this field.
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