Showing papers on "Competitive advantage published in 2018"

Quo Vadis, Dynamic Capabilities? A Content-Analytic Review of the Current State of Knowledge and Recommendations for Future Research

Abstract: Although the dynamic capabilities perspective has become one of the most frequently used theoretical lenses in management research, critics have repeatedly voiced their frustration with this literature, particularly bemoaning the lack of empirical knowledge and the underspecification of the construct of dynamic capabilities. But research on dynamic capabilities has advanced considerably since its early years, in which most contributions to this literature were purely conceptual. A plethora of empirical studies as well as further theoretical elaborations have shed substantial light on a variety of specific, measurable factors connected to dynamic capabilities. Our article starts out by analyzing these studies to develop a meta-framework that specifies antecedents, dimensions, mechanisms, moderators, and outcomes of dynamic capabilities identified in the literature to date. This framework provides a comprehensive and systematic synthesis of the dynamic capabilities perspective that reflects the richness of the research while at the same time unifying it into a cohesive, overarching model. Such an analysis has not yet been undertaken; no comprehensive framework with this level of detail has previously been presented for dynamic capabilities. Our analysis shows where research has made the most progress and where gaps and unresolved tensions remain. Based on this analysis, we propose a forward-looking research agenda that outlines directions for future research.

Big data analytics capabilities: a systematic literature review and research agenda

Abstract: With big data growing rapidly in importance over the past few years, academics and practitioners have been considering the means through which they can incorporate the shifts these technologies bring into their competitive strategies. To date, emphasis has been on the technical aspects of big data, with limited attention paid to the organizational changes they entail and how they should be leveraged strategically. As with any novel technology, it is important to understand the mechanisms and processes through which big data can add business value to companies, and to have a clear picture of the different elements and their interdependencies. To this end, the present paper aims to provide a systematic literature review that can help to explain the mechanisms through which big data analytics (BDA) lead to competitive performance gains. The research framework is grounded on past empirical work on IT business value research, and builds on the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities view of the firm. By identifying the main areas of focus for BDA and explaining the mechanisms through which they should be leveraged, this paper attempts to add to literature on how big data should be examined as a source of competitive advantage. To this end, we identify gaps in the extant literature and propose six future research themes.

A Critical Review of Consumer Wearables, Mobile Applications, and Equipment for Providing Biofeedback, Monitoring Stress, and Sleep in Physically Active Populations.

Abstract: The commercial market for technologies to monitor and improve personal health and sports performance is ever expanding. A wide range of smart watches, bands, garments, and patches with embedded sensors, small portable devices and mobile applications now exist to record and provide users with feedback on many different physical performance variables. These variables include cardiorespiratory function, movement patterns, sweat analysis, tissue oxygenation, sleep, emotional state, and changes in cognitive function following concussion. In this review, we have summarized the features and evaluated the characteristics of a cross-section of technologies for health and sports performance according to what the technology is claimed to do, whether it has been validated and is reliable, and if it is suitable for general consumer use. Consumers who are choosing new technology should consider whether it (1) produces desirable (or non-desirable) outcomes, (2) has been developed based on real-world need, and (3) has been tested and proven effective in applied studies in different settings. Among the technologies included in this review, more than half have not been validated through independent research. Only 5% of the technologies have been formally validated. Around 10% of technologies have been developed for and used in research. The value of such technologies for consumer use is debatable, however, because they may require extra time to set up and interpret the data they produce. Looking to the future, the rapidly expanding market of health and sports performance technology has much to offer consumers. To create a competitive advantage, companies producing health and performance technologies should consult with consumers to identify real-world need, and invest in research to prove the effectiveness of their products. To get the best value, consumers should carefully select such products, not only based on their personal needs, but also according to the strength of supporting evidence and effectiveness of the products.

How Applying Instrumental Stakeholder Theory Can Provide Sustainable Competitive Advantage

Abstract: Instrumental stakeholder theory considers the performance consequences for firms of highly ethical relationships with stakeholders, characterized by high levels of trust, cooperation, and informati...

Dynamic capabilities as (workable) management systems theory

Abstract: In management studies, systems theory is an underexplored construct consistent with the dynamic capabilities framework. The systems approach received attention from management scholars in the middle of the last century, but, since then, has been largely abandoned. Meanwhile, academic disciplines have continued to narrow their focus. The capabilities and systems frameworks both adopt a holistic view that calls for all elements of an organization to be in alignment, and both recognize the importance of some form of learning for the purpose of adaptation. Dynamic capabilities go further by recognizing that organizations not only adapt to the business environment, they often try to shape it, too. While systems theory emphasizes internal stability over time and homogeneity across similar systems, dynamic capabilities include an explicit role for management/leadership that allows systemic change to start from within, which is the source of heterogeneity across firms. Dynamic capabilities are part of a system that includes resources and strategy. Together they determine the degree of competitive advantage an individual enterprise can gain over its rivals.

The sources of dynamism in dynamic capabilities

Abstract: Research Summary We develop a multi-level theory of dynamic capabilities (DCs) that explains resource dynamics by giving a central role to persons and interpersonal interactions rather than to abstract, firm-level entities. Our theory integrates the contrasting approaches to DCs in individual-, interpersonal-, and organization-level scholarship. Existing organization-level approaches portray DCs as collective endeavors but do not specify how they emerge and operate within organizations, while micro-foundational approaches illuminate actors’ contributions but reduce a firm's DCs to the cognitions and actions of a few top managers. Our integrated theory instead explains DCs as effortful social accomplishments emerging from individual employees’ capacity to leverage interpersonal relationships conducive to productive dialogue. The framework we propose offers new ground for understanding how DCs can be sources of sustainable competitive advantage. Managerial Summary How can firms navigate the transformations that relentlessly raise new threats and opportunities in dynamic environments? We suggest that firms develop dynamic capabilities to navigate change when their employees are connected through high-quality relationships, empowering their innovative potential. Strategic adaptation is possible when people are given the opportunity to act, think, and feel creatively while performing tasks, thus envisioning opportunities to improve how the firm operates. This ability supports sustainable, firm-level innovation when employees are connected through interpersonal relationships founded on constructive dialogue. Dialogue allows participants to advance and accept proposals for change even in the presence of conflicting interests and viewpoints. Managers may therefore enhance their firm's capacity for change by fostering individual integration and developing contexts that facilitate dialogue and constructive opposition.

Investigating the relationship between supply chain innovation, risk management capabilities and competitive advantage in global supply chains

Abstract: Purpose- This study aims to propose and validate a theoretical model to investigate whether supply chain innovation positively affects risk management capabilities, such as robustness and resilience in global supply chain operations, and to examine how these capabilities may improve competitive advantage. Design/methodology/approach- A theoretical model was developed from extant studies and assessed through the development of a large-scale questionnaire survey conducted with South Korean manufacturers and logistics intermediaries involved in global supply chain operations. The data were analysed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling (SEM) to validate the suggested model. Findings- It was found that innovative supply chains have a discernible positive influence on all dimensions of risk management capability, which in turn has a significant impact on enhancing competitive advantage. Therefore, this work provides evidence for the importance of supply chain innovation and risk management capability in supporting competitive advantage. Research limitations/implications- This study contributes to providing an empirical understanding of the strategic retention of supply chain innovation and risk management capabilities in the supply chain management (SCM) discipline. Further, it confirms and expands existing theories about innovation and competitive advantage. Practical implications- The finding provides firm grounds for managerial decisions on investment in technology innovation and process innovation. Originality/value- This research is the first of its kind to empirically validate the relationships between supply chain innovation, risk management capabilities and competitive advantage. Keywords: Supply Chain Innovation, Robustne

Reinforcing competitive advantage through green organizational culture and green innovation

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to reveal the relationships among green organizational culture, green innovation and competitive advantage. These relationships were assessed using structural equation modeling. Data were gathered from full-time hotel employees (N: 293) and managers (N: 192) in the Antalya region of Turkey. The results indicate that green organizational culture has a positive effect on green innovation and competitive advantage. Accordingly, green organizational culture is an important determinant for green innovation and competitive advantage. In addition, green innovation acted as a full mediator of the effects of green organizational culture on competitive advantage. Specifically, green organizational culture predicted green innovation, which in turn predicted competitive advantage. Finally, considering that causal studies on green innovation in the hotel industry are limited, this study may contribute to understanding how green innovation affects competitive advantage in the hotel ...

BUSINESS MODEL INNOVATION AND SMEs PERFORMANCE — DOES COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE MEDIATE?

Abstract: In the era of globalisation and dynamic market, firms look for competitive advantage and survival using different sources and resources. Prior studies have indicated that Business Model Innovation (BMI) is a core driver for firm’s survival and superior performance especially in growing industries. However, the role of BMI has been discussed theoretically and exploratory while empirical studies are still lacking. Hence, this study examines the importance of BMI in SME performance and the mediating role of competitive advantage. Data were collected through structured questionnaires using a sample size of 303 manufacturing SMEs operating in the emerging market of Pakistan. Hypotheses were tested through Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) using AMOS.21. The results indicate that BMI has a significant positive impact on competitive advantage and SME performance. Competitive advantage partially mediates the relationship between BMI and SME performance. Firms are required to create an effective business model t...

Understanding the Factors Affecting the Organizational Adoption of Big Data

Abstract: Big data is rapidly becoming a major driver for firms seeking to gain a competitive advantage. Grounded in the Diffusion of Innovation theory (DOI), the institutional theory, and the Tech-nology–Or...

Managing a Complex Global Circular Economy Business Model: Opportunities and Challenges:

Abstract: This article presents an in-depth case study detailing the history, experiences, and wider practitioner and policy lessons from a circular economy business model over a 30-year period, highlighting

Sustainable supply chain management practices in Indian automotive industry: A multi-stakeholder view

Abstract: As one of the largest manufacturing sectors, the automotive industry has a deep impact on the society and environment. Automotive products provide mobility to millions and create jobs, but also threaten the environment. Consumer pressure, government regulations, and stakeholder demands for a competitive edge have forced the automotive industry to consider their environmental and social impacts in addition to their economic status. These pressures have led many automotive industry businesses to adopt Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) practices. Specific practices that are adopted into the traditional supply chain and that help an industry shift towards a sustainable supply chain are called SSCM practices. Firms have difficulty identifying the most useful practices and learning how these practices impact each other. Unfortunately, no existing research has studied the interrelated influences among these practices in the automotive industry, nor from an Indian perspective. The current study aims to give a better understanding of the interrelated influences among SSCM practices with a particular look at the automotive industry. Our research presents views from multiple stakeholders, including managerial, environmental, societal, and governmental associations. We propose a framework model, using the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory method, to evaluate automotive industry SSCM practices specifically situated in the emerging economy of India. Through a questionnaire survey with the above-mentioned stakeholders, we find interinfluences and the prominence of the identified practices. A prominence causal relationship diagram is obtained depicting the cause groups and the effect groups of the practices. The differences and similarities between individual perspectives and combined stakeholder perspectives are identified. The results reveal that management commitment towards sustainability and incorporating the triple bottom line approach in strategic decision making are the most influential practices for implementing the sustainable supply chain management. This study provides a foundation for industrial managers to understand the inter influences among the practices and increases the probability of successful implementation of SSCM practices within the automotive industry.

What is “Chinese” about Chinese multinationals?

Abstract: Buckley et al.’s (J Int Bus Studi 38(4):499–518, 2007) pioneering work concluded that the determinants of outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) from China were similar to those observed in developed countries – but with a few modifications. In this commentary, we suggest continuing their effort to understand what is distinctive about Chinese multinational enterprises (CMNEs). We look for underlying explanations that are analytically useful and potentially generalizable, unlike a firm’s nationality, which is a catch-all variable with no analytical value. Based on prior research and Ramamurti (Glob Strategy J 2(1):41–47, 2012a), we argue that the following variables help explain distinctive aspects of CMNE internationalization: (1) their “stage of evolution as a multinational enterprise,” with most CMNEs being infant MNEs rather than mature MNEs; (2) the “global context for internationalization,” which has helped CMNEs internationalize faster than it was possible in earlier decades; (3) “government-created advantages,” which complemented China’s natural endowments and for the most part improved CMNEs’ international competitiveness; and (4) “leapfrogging advantage,” which allowed late-mover Chinese firms to gain a competitive advantage in smokestack industries and some sunrise industries. These variables may also explain the behavior of MNEs from other emerging economies and are therefore candidates for inclusion in general models of the internationalization process.

Mission and Vision

Abstract: Many microorganisms are able to produce compounds with unusual chemical structures that are often specific for the producing organisms. These compounds are termed natural products. Fungi are one of the major sources of natural products. The function of these compounds for the producing organisms is often unknown. Natural products are the most important source of therapeutic agents, e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins are important antibiotics, cyclosporin is an immunosuppressive agent, lovastatin a cholesterol reducing compound. Of the 520 new drugs approved between 1983 and 1994, 40 % were natural products; 60-80 % of these were antibacterials and anticancer drugs. During 1999, 9 of the 20 bestselling non-protein drugs on the pharmaceutical market were either derived from, or developed from, leads generated by natural products.

Introducing a Circular Economy: New Thinking with New Managerial and Policy Implications:

Abstract: Since the industrial revolution, we have been living in a linear economy. Our consumer and “single use” lifestyles have made the planet a “take, make, dispose” world. This refers to a unidirectiona...

The Impact of Digitalization on the Insurance Value Chain and the Insurability of Risks

Abstract: Based on a dataset of 84 papers and industry studies, we analyse the impact of digital transformation on the insurance sector using Porter’s value chain (The Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance, The Free Press, New York, 1985) and Berliner’s insurability criteria (Limits of Insurability of Risks, Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ, 1982). We also present future research directions from the academic and practitioner points of view. The results illustrate four major tasks the industry is facing: enhancing the customer experience, improving its business processes, offering new products, and preparing for competition with other industries. Moreover, we identify three key areas of change with respect to insurability: the effect of new and more information on information asymmetry and risk pooling, the implications of new technologies on loss frequency and severity, and the increasing dependencies of systems through connectivity.

Surrendering control to gain advantage: Reconciling openness and the resource-based view of the firm

Abstract: Research Summary Strategic openness—firms voluntary forfeiting of control over resources—seemingly challenges the premise of the resource-based view (RBV), which posits that firms should control valuable, rare, and inimitable (VRI) resources. We reconcile this apparent paradox by formalizing whether and when firms—consisting of resource bundles and deriving competitive advantage from exploiting selected VRI resources—may maximize profitability by opening parts of their resource base. As such, our paper refines RBV-related thinking while supporting the theory's core tenets. Notably, we illustrate how a common-pool resource can become a source of competitive advantage and how firms may use openness to shape inter-firm competition. Managerial Summary Conventional wisdom holds that firms must control scarce and valuable resources to obtain competitive advantage. That being said, over the past decade many firms – amongst them Computer Associates, IBM, and Nokia – embarked on open strategies and made parts of their valuable resources available for free. These decisions pose an obvious conundrum, which we solve in our paper. We use a mathematical model, grounded in principles of the resource-based view, to show why and under what conditions open strategies will succeed. Firms significantly improve their performance when (1) opening resources reduces their cost base while (2) strongly increasing demand for their still-proprietary resource(s). We also explain how openness can reshape markets by weakening competitors, particularly in highly rivalrous environments.

Advanced Customer Analytics: Strategic Value Through Integration of Relationship-Oriented Big Data

Abstract: As more firms adopt big data analytics to better understand their customers and differentiate their offerings from competitors, it becomes increasingly difficult to generate strategic value from isolated and unfocused ad hoc initiatives. To attain sustainable competitive advantage from big data, firms must achieve agility in combining rich data across the organization to deploy analytics that sense and respond to customers in a dynamic environment. A key challenge in achieving this agility lies in the identification, collection, and integration of data across functional silos both within and outside the organization. Because it is infeasible to systematically integrate all available data, managers need guidance in finding which data can provide valuable and actionable insights about customers. Leveraging relationship marketing theory, we develop a framework for identifying and evaluating various sources of big data in order to create a value-justified data infrastructure that enables focused and a...