Using grounded theory for theory building in operations management research:a study on inter-firm relationship governance

Abstract

Purpose – Qualitative theory building approaches, such as grounded theory method (GTM), are still not very widespread and rigorously applied in operations management (OM) research. Yet it is agreed that more systematic observation of current industrial phenomena is necessary to help managers deal with their problems. The purpose of this paper is to provide an example to help guide other researchers on using GTM for theory building in OM research. Design/methodology/approach – A GTM study in the German automotive industry consisting of 31 interviews is followed by a validation stage comprising a survey (110 responses) and a focus group. Findings – The result is an example of conducting GTM research in OM, illustrated by the development of the novel collaborative enterprise governance framework for inter-firm relationship governance in the German automotive industry. Research limitations/implications – GTM is appropriate for qualitative theory building research, but the resultant theories need further testing. Research is necessary to identify the transferability of the collaborative enterprise governance concept to other industries than automotive, to other organisational areas than R&D and to product and service settings that are less complex and innovative. Practical implications – The paper helps researchers make more informed use of GTM when engaging in qualitative theory building research in OM. Originality/value – There is a lack of explicit and well-informed use of GTM in OM research because of poor understanding. This paper addresses this deficiency. The collaborative enterprise governance framework is a significant contribution in an area of growing importance within OM.

Publication DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/01443571011024610
Divisions: College of Business and Social Sciences > Aston Business School > Operations & Information Management
Additional Information: This article is © Emerald Group Publishing and permission has been granted for this version to appear here http://www.emeraldinsight.com/journals.htm?issn=0144-3577&volume=30&issue=3&articleid=1838289. Emerald does not grant permission for this article to be further copied/distributed or hosted elsewhere without the express permission from Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
Uncontrolled Keywords: automotive industry,Germany,operations management,qualitative research,Management of Technology and Innovation,Strategy and Management,General Decision Sciences
Publication ISSN: 1758-6593
Last Modified: 04 Dec 2024 08:05
Date Deposited: 11 Mar 2019 17:56
Full Text Link: http://www.emer ... ticleid=1838289
Related URLs: http://www.scop ... tnerID=8YFLogxK (Scopus URL)
PURE Output Type: Article
Published Date: 2010-01-01
Authors: Binder, Mario J.
Edwards, John S. (ORCID Profile 0000-0003-3979-017X)

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