Service innovations enabled by the “internet of things”

Per Andersson, Lars‐Gunnar Mattsson

IMP Journal · 2015 · 117 citations · 23 references

Concepts

TL;DR

The paper aims to develop a novel conceptual framework that captures network dynamics in IoT‑enabled service innovation processes, thereby providing an original contribution to understanding such innovations. Drawing on literature from service innovation, business networks, and IoT, the authors selected dynamic concepts and used the evolving connected‑vehicle case to formulate propositions about interactions among framework variables. They produced a framework comprising four interacting variables—overlapping, intermediating, objectification of actors, and business modelling—that links multiple research streams, and they offered propositions and practical implications for designing and implementing business models in IoT‑enabled services. The framework may stimulate further research on IoT‑enabled service innovations.

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a new conceptual framework that reflects network dynamics in Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled service innovation processes. Design/methodology/approach – Based on literature on service innovations, business networks and IoT, dynamic concepts are selected. Aided by information about an evolving case “The connected vehicle”, propositions about interaction between the variables in the framework are formulated. Findings – A conceptual framework consisting of four interacting variables: overlapping, intermediating, objectification of actors and business modelling is developed, linking several streams of research. Propositions are motivated and issues for further research questions formulated. Research limitations/implications – The framework may stimulate further research on IoT-enabled service innovations. Practical implications – Understanding network dynamics for developing and implementing business models for service innovations. Originality/value – The conceptual framework provides an original contribution to understanding IoT-enabled service innovations.

References

23