Understanding ICT Based Advantages: A Techno Savvy Case Study

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) increasingly are being linked to organisational value. However, current research tends to examine these resources in an uncoupled way despite numerous calls for work which examines ICTs in a more integrated way. This research addresses this gap by investigating how ICTs are successfully combined with other resources in the context of an exemplar organisation. The resource based view (RBV) is used as a framework to guide this research. The RBV is an appropriate lens due to its focus on resources and capabilities as sources of advantage. This research employs an interpretive case study design based in an organisation with a long history of innovation and success with regard to ICTs. An integrated model of advantage is presented based on two distinct groupings of capabilities. In essence, this research demonstrates how the total ownership of ICTs, within the case studied, presents a potential advantage. The advantage is realised through the combination of capabilities and the inclusive approach to ICT development employed in the case organisation. This research has important implications for theory and practice. While many individual sources of advantage have been empirically examined, this research provides one of the first in-depth case studies that identify integrated capabilities. Understanding such sources of advantage will help practitioners better understand and protect key organisational capabilities to sustain or extend competitive advantages.Karyn Rastrick holds a PhD from The University of Waikato in Hamilton, New Zealand. She currently serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Management Systems at The University of Waikato Management School. Her research interests include understanding information communication technologies in organisations, innovation management, and the management of critical incidents. James Corner obtained his PhD in operations research from ArizonaState University in 1991 after completing an engineering degree at the University of Virginia and an MBA from Wyoming. He also has 10 years of managerial work experience with Texas Instruments and US Steel. His research interests historically have centered around both descriptive and prescriptive decision processes, and more specifically decision analysis. He recently has expanded his interests to include knowledge management and the new field of systems intelligence.

Leveraging Telematics for Optimal Fleet Performance

“…The use of GPS enabled fleet management systems to gain a competitive advantage has become a key strategic issue amongst organizations in the fast globalizing environment, as ICT plays a strategic role in the management of organizations. Rastrict and Corner (2010), among others, reveal that there is growing support for the positive relationship between ICT and its benefits.…”

“…The use of information and communication technologies ICT in order to gain a competitive advantage has become a key strategic issue in organisations in a fast globalising environment particularly as a result of the fact that ICT plays a strategic role in the management of organisations. Rastrict and Corner (2010), among others, emphasise the positive relationship between ICT and its benefits. To run the transport process smoothly, companies are increasingly using modern tools of information systems.…”