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A planning solution for virtual business relationships

Rainer A. Sommer (School of Public Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA)

Industrial Management & Data Systems

ISSN: 0263-5577

Article publication date: 24 April 2009

1077

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to show that the planning‐oriented reference model is a conceptual approach that may provide a more complete alignment of strategic information, governance constructs, as well as process and information flows in the development of virtual partnerships.

Design/methodology/approach

The research consists of a literature review along with interviews and observations recorded from previous public/private sector engagements in virtual planning and process change initiatives.

Findings

There are very few references that directly address the alignment of strategic plans, governance, and processes within the context of a reusable reference model library. Hence, such an approach may have merit in enhancing the body of knowledge associated with virtual business planning efforts.

Practical implications

If narrative strategic planning and policy information can be aligned and subsequently formally documented within a process‐oriented reference model structure, the resultant blueprint may be helpful in facilitating the rapid formation of virtual business partnership.

Originality/value

In a global economy competitive advantage will increasingly depend on how quickly organizations are able to reorganize in response to changing demand and market condition. Hence, virtual relationships will play an important role in the competitive challenges of the twenty‐first century. The framework proposes the use of reusable, process‐based planning libraries that could reduce the time and complexity associated with the formation, maintenance, and dissolution of virtual partnerships.

Keywords

Citation

Sommer, R.A. (2009), "A planning solution for virtual business relationships", Industrial Management & Data Systems, Vol. 109 No. 4, pp. 463-476. https://doi.org/10.1108/02635570910948614

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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