Formation of dynamic virtual enterprises and enterprise networks

Abstract

This paper addresses the preparation and set up of virtual enterprises and enterprise networks. A virtual enterprise (VE) can be perceived as a customer solution delivery system created by a temporary and re-configurable information and communications technology (ICT) enabled aggregation of competencies. The main achievements of the research include: (1) Clarification and definition of the concept for virtual enterprises and enterprise networks including preparation of these. (2) Development of a framework and a reference architecture for virtual enterprises named as Structured Methodology and ICT Reference Architecture respectively. Structured methodology structures the body of knowledge related to preparation, setup, and operation of virtual enterprises and enterprise networks. ICT reference architecture consists of three levels with seven layers to portray in a diagrammatic fashion how different enterprises may exchange and use information between their respective organizations’ specific proprietary systems and a central server. (3) Development of a methodology for virtual enterprise named as virtual enterprise methodology (VEM). VEM consists of a set of guidelines, which systematically describes activities that enterprises should consider in relation to set up and preparation of own enterprise networks with the aim to set up virtual enterprises. (4) Testing and validation of the developed VEM with the realization of a virtual case study. Virtual case study demonstrates and validates the application of the developed VE methodology with the illustration of the key activities related to setting up breeding environment, setting up and operating VE and dissolution of VE.