Organization's Seminar

Topic:Configuration, Integration, and Socially Enabling Mechanisms: A Multidimensional Approach to Interdependencies Fit

Speaker:Arie Y. Lewin，The Fuqua School of Business, Duke University

Time:Friday, 31 Oct., 2:00-3:30PM

Location:Room K01,Guanghua Building 2

Abstract:This research reexamines the concept of interdependencies fit and performance, and proposes to model interdependencies fit as a construct with three dimensions: (1) the configuration of elements (e.g., structure, strategy, environment), (2) utilization, configuration, and effectiveness of formal integration mechanisms (e.g., clear and measurable objectives), and (3) the firm’s socially enabling mechanism (i.e., unobservable processes and routines that combine to guide action). We expect equifinality in the way companies configure and integrate the different interdependent elements and achieve fit and performance. We empirically demonstrate our model on the complex organizational activity of global sourcing of business services in three ways. First, we use a field study to identify the key elements and integration mechanisms involved in the activity of global sourcing. Second, we use a fuzzy set QCA method to show the importance of the integration mechanisms for high interdependencies fit and performance beyond the modular solutions; demonstrate equifinality; and identify configurations that lead to high (and low) activity performance. Finally, we use a qualitative polar case study to demonstrate the development and effect of the elements of the socially enabling mechanisms on fit and performance.

Your participation is warmly welcomed!