Interfunctional coordination: the role of digitalization
Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing
ISSN: 0885-8624
Article publication date: 20 August 2019
Issue publication date: 18 March 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate interfunctional coordination (IC) in a B2B context. More specifically, it explores the role of digitalization as a strategic driver for an effective IC.
Design/methodology/approach
Following a qualitative methodology, three studies have been integrated: Study 1 (focus group with 5 participants), Study 2 (31 in-depth interviews with top executives) and Study 3 (online focus group with 9 experts).
Findings
One finding is that digitalization is the main driver for IC and can be considered strategic. Other findings show that digitalization can enhance IC, but it was also found that digitalization can have negative side effects on IC.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the understanding of the importance of digitalization on IC and also contributes to the conceptualization of IC as a dynamic capability.
Keywords
Citation
Ruiz-Alba, J.L., Guesalaga, R., Ayestarán, R. and Morales Mediano, J. (2020), "Interfunctional coordination: the role of digitalization", Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, Vol. 35 No. 3, pp. 404-419. https://doi.org/10.1108/JBIM-03-2019-0129
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited