Identification of IT-Needs to Cope with Dynamism in Collaborative Networked Organizations—A Case Study

Abstract

Collaborative Networked Organizations (CNOs) are increasingly common in current dynamic markets. The participants in a CNO try to achieve a common goal while acting on market opportunities. Information technology (IT) facilitates collaboration between participants within a CNO. In this paper, we show how CNOs cope with network-dynamics related to their IT-needs. Two sub-characteristics of network dynamics, respectively many-to-many relations and interaction patterns, will be investigated. In the end, we are trying to answer the question regarding what IT-needs CNOs have, to cope with CNO-dynamism. Based on a literature review we developed a framework on CNO-dynamism and executed a multi-case study within four CNOs. We conclude that all framework components are recognized within the CNOs. CNOs appeared to mainly cope with dynamics by using collaborative platforms, task management systems, and conference facilities.