The impact of servitization on firm performance: a meta-analysis

TLDR

Servitization is viewed as a means for manufacturers to enhance performance, yet evidence on its effect remains inconsistent and sometimes contradictory. The study aims to quantitatively review the relationship between servitization and firm performance, addressing the inconsistencies in prior research. The authors sampled 41 peer‑reviewed studies and applied a meta‑analytic method to examine the servitization‑performance link. The meta‑analysis confirms a positive servitization‑performance relationship, moderated by how constructs and controls are defined, and establishes a foundation for future research.

Abstract

Purpose Servitization has been recognized as an effective means for manufacturers to achieve superior performance. However, the servitization-performance relationship is controversial since prior empirical studies have provided inconsistent and even contradictory results. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to provide a quantitative review on the servitization-performance relationship based on research findings reported in the extant literature. Design/methodology/approach Studies from 41 peer-reviewed journal articles were sampled and analyzed. A meta-analytic approach was adopted to conduct a quantitative review on the relationship between servitization and firm performance. Findings The results confirm a positive servitization-performance relationship. In addition, the results reveal that the observed servitization-performance relationship is influenced by the operationalization of constructs (servitization and performance) and control variables (industry and region). Originality/value As the first meta-analysis on the servitization-performance relationship, this study contributes to the servitization literature and provides future research directions.