Triangle of dynamics factors in inter-organizational networks

Abstract

Purpose – the main scientific purpose of this article is to conceptualise the categories of dynamics of interorganisational networks strategy. The scientific problem presented in the article concerns initially identified connections between three major elements (based on literature studies and authors’ previous experiences), describing the dynamism of the strategy as mentioned above. Those elements were named by the authors as the Triangle of Dynamics Factors (TDF), and are (1) propensity of taking the risk and real ability to accurately assess opportunities, (2) skills, and processes of opportunities identification, creation, and exploitation, as well as (3) leadership skills of contemporary managers. Basing on those connections, the article concerns on clarifying research hypotheses in the areas of the three mentioned differentiating factors. Research methodology – in order to achieve the main goal of the article both quantitative (survey research) and qualitative (case study) methods were chosen for future research. Findings – the conducted research is focused on positioning previously mentioned categories in the micro-scale strategy, as well as on determining variables constituting the dynamics of inter-organisational networks strategies. The article presents research hypotheses that will be verified. Research limitations – the limitations are primarily related to a variety of factors influencing the dynamics of interorganisational network strategies, observed both inside and outside the networks. The article focuses on those factors that decision-makers in networks can influence, which is tantamount to omitting most factors within the networks' environment. At the same time, the article focuses on selected types of inter-organisational networks – both decentralised and centralised. The article is conceptual; therefore, it does not contain the results of empirical research directly oriented on all three identified factors, which is its specific limitation. Partial results of the previously conducted research indicated in the article relate only to one of the identified elements. It is the area of skills, and processes of opportunities identification, creation, and exploitation. Practical implications – the practical business implications concern mostly the necessity of organisational adaptation to changing environmental conditions, the imperative of being flexible and striving for the success by inter-organisational networks. The article identifies those factors being under the actual influence exerted by networks' representatives. Originality/Value – this article is the authors' third joint work, and hitherto in the examined literature, there were no publications dedicated to the study of strategy dynamics and dynamism of the inter-organisational networks' strategy, researched in the triad: risk – opportunities – leadership. This creates a wide interpretative and research area for the indicated topic.