Interaction of resources, networks and technology to create social value

Abstract

Technologies, networks and resources are business model elements that act as core structures underpinning activities and yield economic outcome. South African context was used to explore how these elements create and retain social value for diverse groups of people and to determine how this influence the development of new products and services. A cross-sectional qualitative design method was used; cases were selected from registered network of social entrepreneurs as members of the African Social Entrepreneur Network. The data was analysed using NVIVO 10 where effects were identified and emerging patterns and themes were categorise to determine relationships. Key findings highlighted the use of partnerships for networking to complement each other’s resources, while technologies are considered a major resource. The findings suggest that partnerships and collaboration are used as the platforms for connection and communication between businesses, and technologies. These are converted to strengthen the existing resources in a way that benefits stakeholders, the social business and its partners.