Competitive Dynamics in Business Model Evolution: An Analysis of the Chinese Online Group Buying Industry

Zhao, Y., Von Delft, S. , Morgan-Thomas, A. and Buck, T. (2016) Competitive Dynamics in Business Model Evolution: An Analysis of the Chinese Online Group Buying Industry. In: Strategic Management Society Special Conference: Contextualizing Strategic Management in Asia: Institutions, Innovation and Internationalization, Hong Kong, China, 10-12 Dec 2016,

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Abstract

In this article we synthesize strategy and business model literature to explore the role of competitive dynamics in business model evolution. A longitudinal case study of twelve start-ups shows that both innovative actions and imitative reactions are commonplace in crafting a viable business model design. An analysis of the dynamic interaction between innovations and imitations identifies four patterns of business model evolution: intermittent innovation, continuous innovation, selective imitation, and adaptive imitation. These patterns affect a firm's short and long-term performance differently. Successful companies combine several of these patterns, thus fusing innovation and imitation to develop a sustainable business model. In contrast, in our sample, competitors that did not combine these strategies, and instead focused their efforts on business model innovation, failed in this market.

Item Type:Conference Proceedings
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Morgan-Thomas, Professor Anna and Von Delft, Professor Stephan and Zhao, Dr Yang and Buck, Professor Trevor
Authors: Zhao, Y., Von Delft, S., Morgan-Thomas, A., and Buck, T.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School > Management
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