Title: A task-resource dependency perspective on partner selection during the formation of networked business constellations

Authors: Novica Zarvic, Marcus Seifert, K-D. Thoben

Addresses: BIBA – Bremer Institut fur Produktion und Logistik GmbH, Hochschulring 20, 28359 Bremen, Germany. ' BIBA – Bremer Institut fur Produktion und Logistik GmbH, Hochschulring 20, 28359 Bremen, Germany. ' BIBA – Bremer Institut fur Produktion und Logistik GmbH, Hochschulring 20, 28359 Bremen, Germany

Abstract: The organisational forms of networked business constellations in general are often interpreted as the new organisational forms of the 21st century. As far as such forms consist of multiple collaborating businesses, partner selection during the formation phase of a networked business constellation is a crucial task for successful operation in the future. We propose to choose the appropriate business partners by applying concepts from coordination theory. In particular, we decompose an identified business opportunity, usually an innovative product or service, into its embracing tasks and resources. These represent the competencies needed for meeting the business opportunity. The methodological approach for partner selection is discussed from a task-resource dependency perspective and the benefits for the networked business context are highlighted. The research in this paper is accompanied by an argumentation-based validation, as well as by an evaluation of sustainability.

Keywords: partner selection; networked business constellations; coordination theory; task-resource dependency; formation phase; business opportunities; strategic alliances; virtual organisations.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNVO.2010.034921

International Journal of Networking and Virtual Organisations, 2010 Vol.7 No.5, pp.399 - 414

Published online: 31 Aug 2010 *

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