Influence of switching costs and resource dependence in interorganizational cooperation

Abstract

Purpose: This article analyzes the influence of switching costs and resource dependence on interorganizational cooperation between contractors (buyers) and transport companies (sellers). Originality/value: The management accounting literature has traditionally focused on intraorganizational controls. However, researchers have a growing interest in applying management accounting elements in the interorganizational scope. This study contributes to the literature on interorganizational relationships by presenting possible evidence of the relationship between resource dependence, switching costs, and interorganizational cooperation between contractors and transport companies. Design/methodology/approach: This quantitative study surveyed the perception of professionals from food and beverage sector companies about the transport companies they contract. A total of 120 professionals participated in the study, and the Structural Equations Modeling (SEM) technique was used to analyze the structural model. Findings: The relational and procedural dimensions of switching costs and resource dependence influence interorganizational cooperation positively. A total mediation of resource dependence was found in the relationship between procedural switching costs and interorganiza-tional cooperation. The results showed that switching costs and resource dependence are antecedents of interorganizational cooperation between the firms surveyed and the transport companies they contract. As for social and managerial implications, this study offers managers a deeper understanding of the importance of switching costs and resource dependence and the impacts of these factors on interorganizational cooperation.