Conceptualizing mechanisms influencing strategizing in business networks

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study how insights from socio-cognitivism (sensemaking and interaction) in conjunction with institutional theory enhance our knowledge of strategizing in business networks through role and position.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is conceptual and reviews extant literature from the fields under scrutiny, presenting and analyzing new combined approaches.

Findings

Current writings concerning strategizing in networks need to be supplemented in the area of strategic business network research. Interaction, sensemaking and institutionalization, as well as the network in which a firm is embedded, are important for strategically developing network positions and the roles of actors.

Research limitations/implications

This conceptual paper suggests mechanisms affecting role and position in networks and calls for empirical research to deepen the understanding of the change forces at play in embedded relational situations for firms.

Originality value

This study adds to current conceptual knowledge of strategizing in business networks. It presents a comprehensive perspective in viewing how key forces impact on the strategic position and role of corporate actors (both managers and firms) in networks.

Citation

Nyström, A.-G., Ramstrom, J. and Törnroos, J.-Å. (2017), "Conceptualizing mechanisms influencing strategizing in business networks", Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, Vol. 32 No. 6, pp. 777-785. https://doi.org/10.1108/JBIM-06-2015-0105