The Primary Actors of Technology Standardization in the Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

To date, discussions on standards and standards-related market issues have mainly been focused on market influence, such as a company’s performance, trade, and technological innovation. Despite the fact that many studies have been conducted with a focus on technology standards, the ways in which primary actors of standards affect the market are yet to be fully investigated in extant studies. In this study, we investigate the primary actors in technology standardization by carrying out a systematic review and constructing a conceptual framework and concept maps of primary actors. Based on our analysis, we categorize primary actors, according to their roles and timing of engagement in standardization, as follows: Technology producers, standard-setters, regulators, and technology users. We illustrate each actor’s detailed actions, motives, and difficulties with concept maps that are structured based on the SAO/P model, in order to elucidate why primary actors participate in standardization and how they act to achieve their goals or resolve difficulties. Based on our findings, we derive implications in terms of the strategic management of standardization activities in the manufacturing industry.