Browsing by Author "Bastl, Marko"

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    Business triads in servitization; The influence of the provider's - partner relationship on the performance of the partner towards the provider
    (Cranfield University, 2012-10) Karatzas, Antonios; Johnson, Mark; Bastl, Marko
    The thesis is concerned with a problem arising in contexts where there is provision of integrated product-service offerings (servitization). It may be the case that the provider relies on independent service partners for the delivery of the services to the customer, which means that the three actors (provider, service partner and customer) form a triad. This makes the performance of the partner determinative for customer satisfaction and hence an important issue for the provider. Because the buyer – supplier relationships and business triads literatures suggest that relationships affect the performance of the related parties, the aim of this work is to understand how the provider – partner working relationship influences the service performance of the latter. To satisfy the aim, an appropriate setting in the UK commercial vehicles industry was identified (one provider plus a network of service partners), and a mixed-methods research design was employed. The qualitative part consisted of several exploratory interviews and three case-studies of purposively sampled provider – partner relationships. The quantitative part had a supplementary character, and as part of it, questionnaires completed by 38 of the provider’s partners were analyzed with the use of a configurational method (fsQCA). In this study, the firm-level working relationship was considered as a five-dimensional construct based on Cannon’s and Perreault’s (1999) framework of relationship connectors. The findings consist of: 1) A model capturing the causal ordering of the relationship dimensions, their interplay with two emergent exogenous factors, and their eventual impact on the service performance of the partner. 2) A set of configurations of relationship dimensions and exogenous factors enhancing service performance. With the in-depth study of the influence of the provider – partner relationship on the performance of the partner towards the provider’s customer-base, my research simultaneously contributes to knowledge in two ways. Firstly, it helps in the theoretical development of the phenomenon of servitization, and secondly, it extends triadic research by examining in depth and in a novel setting the relationship – performance interdependence within the triad.
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    Challenges in transforming manufacturing organisations into product-service providers
    (MCB University Press, 2010-04-01T00:00:00Z) Martinez, Veronica; Bastl, Marko; Kingston, Jennifer; Evans, Stephen
    Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present challenges experienced by UK manufacturing companies undergoing a servitization journey to becoming product- service providers. Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses an exploratory single-case study approach based on semi-structured interviews, and archival data. A total of 22 senior managers were interviewed from the product-service provider and its two suppliers, resulting in more than 400 pages of interview data. Data were analysed through an inductive research analysis by an emergent identification of patterns. Findings – This research identifies critical and frequent challenges experienced by UK manufacturing companies undergoing a servitization journey to becoming product-service system (PSS) providers. They are condensed into five pillars, which constitute the architecture of challenges in servitization. The architecture of challenges in servitization provides a full description of the strategy and operations of PSSs. Research limitations/implications – This is qualitative research based on a single case study. Given the nature of research design, the identified patterns cannot be used as a predictive tool. Practical implications – This research provides a framework to understand, analyse and plan the strategic transformations to more highly servitized organisational forms. Originality/value – This paper contributes to knowledge with a new model called “the architecture of challenges in servitization”. This is the only model that explains the importance of the strategic, operational and social tests that organisations confront when adopting servitization strategies. If companies understand these challenges, they have the potential to create unique sets of values for a variety of s
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    An exploration of managers' openess and relationship transparency in a buyer-supplier relationship
    (Cranfield University, 2011-12) Bastl, Marko; Mena, Carlos
    The problem explored in this thesis falls under a broad topic of information sharing in a buyer-supplier relationship. Responding to the empirically underexplored state of extant literature on information sharing, this study aims to gain a better understanding of the factors that influence managers to engage in information sharing as an activity, as well as the factors influencing information sharing as an outcome and its consequences in a buyer-supplier relationship. In this way, this study acknowledges a conceptual separation between information sharing as an activity (i.e. a manager’s openness) and information sharing as an outcome (i.e. relationship transparency), and treats a manager as embedded in an external, wider interaction environment (e.g. buyer-supplier relationship). The study adopts a qualitative, exploratory approach, utilising a case-based research strategy. The empirical study is based on a pilot and two main cases. The main interviews were carried out on the suppliers’ side of two buyer-supplier dyads. In total, the empirical work consisted of 45 semi-structured interviews with 32 managers. Based on the empirical work, the thesis develops two models: the contingencies model, which captures the influencing factors of a manager’s openness and relationship transparency, and the consequences model, which captures the consequences of relationship transparency. In so doing, the thesis makes three primary theoretical contributions. First, captured in the contingencies model, it shows that a manager’s openness is influenced by the interplay of a number of individual-level factors, where managers’ trust and risk taking behaviours play a central role as well as through an external interaction environment. Second, the same model suggests that information quality alone is not enough to foster relationship transparency and that other factors, such as trustworthiness of information source and a recipient’s knowledge, should also be considered. Third, the thesis also identifies a number of consequences of relationship transparency, which are captured in the consequences model, and highlights the role of the external context an understanding of those consequences. In this way, the study marks a step forward towards increasing the understanding of information sharing as an activity and as an outcome, while considering an individual manager as part of a wider interaction environment.
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    Inter-organisational costing approaches: the inhibiting factors
    (Mcb, 2010-12-31T00:00:00Z) Bastl, Marko; Grubic, Tonci; Templar, Simon; Harrison, Alan; Fan, Ip-Shing
    Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to highlight the limitations of current accounting practices in an inter-organisational context; introduce contemporary costing approaches used in inter-organisational costing (IOC) programmes; and identify the inhibitors of successful implementation of IOC programmes. Design/ methodology/approach - The paper uses a structured review of empirical and theoretical literature. Findings - Traditional accounting practices do not adequately fulfil their role in the inter-organisational context. Contemporary accounting practices overcome only some limitations of traditional accounting practices. The paper uncovers part of the complexity surrounding the implementation of IOC programmes and suggests that we are dealing with a broad inter-disciplinary phenomenon. Research limitations/implications - Conclusions are drawn on a conceptual level and further empirical investigation is encouraged. Practical implications - The paper raises the awareness of the complexity surrounding the implementation of IOC programmes. The broad set of inhibiting factors could be effectively used by managers to assess the readiness of organisations involved in implementation of IOC programmes. Originality/value - This research is the first that systematically addresses the problem of inhibitors in the implementation of IOC programmes. The broad scope of the paper sets the foundations for more focused research into specific inhibiting factors.
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    Interplay between network configurations and network governance mechanisms in supply networks a systematic literature review
    (Cranfield University, 2012-10) Habib, Farooq; Bastl, Marko
    Purpose: This work systematically reviews the extant academic management literature on supply networks. It specifically examines how network configurations and network governance mechanisms influence each other in supply networks. Design: 125 analytical and empirical studies were identified using an evidence-based approach to review the literature mainly published between 1985 and 2012. Synthesis: Drawing on a multi-disciplinary theoretical foundation, this work develops an integrative framework to identify three distinct yet interdependent themes that characterize the study of supply networks: a) Network Configurations (structures and relationships); b) Network Governance Mechanisms (formal and informal); and c) The Interplay between Network Configurations and Network Governance Mechanisms. Findings: Network configurations and network governance mechanisms mutually influence each other and cannot be considered in isolation. Formal and informal governance mechanisms provide better control when used as complements rather than as substitutes. The choice of governance mechanism depends on the nature of exchange; role of management; desired level of control; level of flexibility in formal contracts; and complementary role of formal and informal governance mechanism. Research implications: This nascent field has thematic and methodological research opportunities for academics. Comparative network analysis using longitudinal case studies offers a rich area for further study. Practical Implications: The complexity surrounding the conflicting roles of managers at the organisation and network levels poses a significant challenge during the development and implementation stage of strategic network policies. Originality/value: This review reveals that formal and informal governance mechanisms provide better control when used as complements rather than as substitutes.
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    Product service systems and supply network relationships: an exploratory case study
    (MCB University Press, 2011-03-01T00:00:00Z) Lockett, Helen L.; Johnson, Mark; Bastl, Marko; Evans, Stephen
    Purpose - In recent years there has been increasing interest in Product Service Systems (PSS) as a business model for selling integrated product and service offerings. To date there has been extensive research into the benefits of PSS to manufacturers and their customers, but there has been limited research into the effect of PSS on the upstream supply chain. It is this gap that this research seeks to address. Design/Methodology/Approach - The research uses case based research which is appropriate for exploratory research of this type. In depth interviews were conducted with key personnel in a focal firm and two members of its supply chain and the results were analysed to identify emergent themes. Findings - The research has identified differences in supplier behaviour dependent on their role in PSS delivery and their relationship with the PSS provider. In particular it suggests that for a successful partnership it is important to align the objectives between PSS provider and suppliers. Originality/ value - This research provides a detailed investigation into a PSS supply chain and highlights the complexity of roles and relationships among the organisations within it. It will be of value to other PSS researchers and organisations transitioning to the delivery of PSS. Keywords - Product Service Systems, Servitization, Supply Networks, Relationships, Case Study, Product Lifecycle
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    Strategic responses to power dominance in buyer-supplier relationships: a weaker actor's perspective
    (Emerald, 2015-03-02) Habib, Farooq; Bastl, Marko; Pilbeam, Colin
    Purpose – This paper identifies the strategic options available to a weaker actor to counteract the dominance of a stronger actor in a buyer-supplier relationship, and identifies those factors that influence the choice of individual options. Design/methodology/approach – Following a systematic literature review methodology, a five-phase approach of planning, searching, screening, extraction and synthesis was rigorously employed. 48 studies were used to draw conclusions about the phenomena of interest. Findings – Captured in an integrated conceptual framework, this study identified five strategic options available to the weaker actor in order to counteract a power dominance of a stronger player, which were underpinned by seven influencing factors. Research limitations/implications – The proposed conceptual framework requires first qualitative empirical validation using an abductive multi-case strategy, followed by a theory testing phase, employing a configurational approach. Practical implications – The proposed framework suggested that the weaker actor in a buyer-supplier relationship has five options to address power dominance. These options were available within as well as beyond a focal dyadic relationship. For the stronger actor, we showed that power dominance is a temporary state rather than permanent. Originality/value – This study marks one of the first attempts to present a coherent set of strategic options and underpinning factors to counteract power dominance in a buyer-supplier relationship from the perspective of a weaker actor. Given the underexplored nature of the topic, the study also provides guidelines for further research. Keywords: Buyer-supplier relationships, power, weaker actor, strategic choices, systematic literature review Paper type: Literature Review
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    Supply networks for extreme uncertainty: a resource orchestration perspective
    (Emerald, 2023-02-20) Skipworth, Heather; Bastl, Marko; Cerruti, Corrado; Mena, Carlos
    Purpose: Disasters are growing in frequency and scale, unmasking the systemic vulnerabilities of modern supply chains and highlighting the need to understand how to respond to such events. In the context of an extreme event such as the Covid-19 pandemic, this research focuses on how networks of organizations leverage their combined resources and capabilities to develop, manufacture, and deliver new products outside their traditional markets. Design/methodology/approach: Following a theory elaboration process, we build on resource orchestration theory to develop data collection and analysis protocols to support a multi-case study research design. This research investigates four cases of newly formed networks that emerged in four different countries – Colombia, Italy, the United States, and the United Kingdom – in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Findings: These four networks in our investigation share common characteristics in terms of motivation and approach, creating patterns from which theoretical generalizations are developed into a series of propositions regarding the process of network-level resource orchestration under extreme uncertainty. Originality: This research contributes to theory by extending the resource orchestration model to a network level and showing how extreme uncertainty can lead to the emergence of networks and alter the motivations and goals of the member organizations, allowing them to be more responsive. Practical implications: The research shows how networks and the organizations within them can streamline processes, swiftly build new relationships, and develop a balanced risk management approach to extreme uncertainty.
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    The interplay of agile capabilities in crisis response
    (Emerald, 2025) Bastl, Marko; Cerruti, Corrado; Mena, Carlos; Skipworth, Heather Dawn
    Purpose Large-scale disruptions that lead to extreme environmental uncertainty, combined with perceived threats and time pressure, have prompted some organizations to rapidly form new networks. This research aims to focus on how actors in these newly formed networks leverage their agile capabilities in response to extreme disruptions. Design/methodology/approach Grounded in the agility literature, this study employs an abductive research approach and a multi-case design. Data were collected from 18 actors embedded in four newly formed networks located in the United Kingdom, Italy, Colombia and the USA. Findings Through six propositions and an empirically derived model of supply chain agility under extreme uncertainty, the findings reveal a dynamic interplay among agile capabilities. They also illustrate how the utilization of these capabilities shifts in environments characterized by severe unpredictability. Practical implications The research underscores the importance of allocating equal attention to both cognitive and physical dimensions of agility. Under conditions of extreme uncertainty, firms may need to adopt more entrepreneurial behaviors to enhance agility; however, this can increase risk exposure, which must be managed proactively. Originality/value This study contributes to the body of knowledge on supply chain agility by identifying the interrelationships between agility dimensions and demonstrating how extreme uncertainty influences their practical application.
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    Treat me well and I may leave you kindly: A configurational approach to a buyer’s relationship exit strategy
    (Elsevier, 2019-07-27) Habib, Farooq; Bastl, Marko; Mena Madrazo, Carlos
    Research shows that the choice of relationship exit strategy by the instigator of exit can have significant negative consequences for the party that is being dropped. In this study we focus on what we coin as kind exit, where the risk of harm to the supplier as a result of the buyer's relationship termination is low. In line with current research, which is suggesting that the characteristics of a buyer-supplier relationship play a critical role in the instigator's choice of exit strategy, we examine the link between the buyer's perception of its relationship with the supplier and the manner in which the buyer-supplier relationship ends. We posit that this phenomenon is causally complex and context dependent, and as such, there will be multiple types of buyer-supplier relationships that will lead to a kind exit. To uncover these types, we examine 315 terminated buyer-supplier relationships in manufacturing and service sectors in the UK, employing fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Our results show that contrary to extant literature, there is not one relationship type that leads to a kind exit; instead, we uncover four alternative equifinal configurations of relationship dimensions and two exogenous factors.