Technology alignment and business strategy: a performance measurement and Dynamic Capability perspective

Rodney Mcadam, Umit Bititci, Brendan Galbraith

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

31 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Rapid changes in market structures and technology lead to misalignment between strategy and operations. Whist this phenomenon is most prevalent in technology based manufacturing industries, utility organisations (e.g. electricity and telecoms) provide a useful context to explore the Performance measurement (PM) and technology alignment challenges from a Dynamic Capabilities Theory perspective where there is a progressive shift towards deregulated markets. The aim of this paper is twofold: First, to explore the role of Dynamic Capabilities Theory and PM approaches in improving the alignment between business strategy and technology strategy (Level 1 alignment); second, to explore the role of Dynamic Capabilities Theory and PM approaches in aligning technology strategy with operational technology routines and practices (Level 2 alignment). In the absence of overarching theory an inductive approach which draws upon Dynamic Capabilities theory. Four longitudinal case studies are used leading to the development of a conceptual framework and propositions for multilevel technology alignment. Data from 38 interviews and eight separate focus groups, documentation, and participant observations (over a three-year period) are used. The theory-building process shows the need to identify and develop PM-based technology alignment Dynamic Capabilities (PM-DCs) which help in improving and maintaining alignment between business strategy and technology strategy (Level 1 alignment) and between technology strategy and technology practices (Level 2 alignment). This approach requires critically reflective action-learning approaches to identify and nurture these PM-DCs.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)7168-7186
Number of pages19
JournalInternational Journal of Production Research
Volume55
Issue number23
Early online date20 Jul 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished (in print/issue) - 20 Jul 2017

Keywords

  • KEYWORDS: PERFORMANCE MEASURES
  • TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT
  • CASE BASED REASONING
  • OPERATIONS STRATEGY
  • STRATEGY

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