Using alliances to cut the learning curve of ICT

Abstract

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is arguably an important, emblematic and ubiquitous technology of contemporary society. For many incumbent firms, the infusion of ICT into their industries poses both threats and opportunities. It might drive significant shifts of financial wealth and make firm performance change drastically. It entails managerial challenges of a kind we might not have seen before, but where knowledge of what possibilities and limitations reside in ICT will be a key success factor. One strategy to incorporate ICT-capability is developing the capability in-house; another strategy is to shortcut the learning curve and form alliance with someone having ICT-capability. By applying a design science approach a framework for ICT-capability transfer is put forth, a framework based on 62 interviews from stakeholders with experience of ICT-motivated alliances. By using this framework the risk of failure is reduced.