Innovating through value co-creation: a viable (eco) systems perspective

Carlo Alessandro Sirianni, Mara Grimaldi

Abstract


The work proposes a conceptual framework combining Service-dominant logic (S-D logic) and service ecosystems view with Viable systems approach (VSA) to advance some management steps for decision-making aimed at encouraging innovation and challenging complexity. Starting from an overview on the key concepts of both theories, the common points and the dissimilarities between them are discussed.

Based on their complementarity (S-D logic focuses on an interactive level of analysis, whereas VSA is grounded on a managerial viewpoint) the key management drivers to foster innovation in viable ecosystems are introduced and debated. Then, four stages of a circular pathway for innovation are identified: 1) proactive and innovation-oriented mind-set for stakeholder’s selection; 2) relationships and resource integration management to optimize value co-creation; 3) objectives/goal alignment; 4) multi-level decision-making for the renewal of innovation.

The study provides insights on the relationship between value co-creation and innovation and shed light on the potential antecedents and consequences of innovation by analysing the circularity in innovation process. Moreover, revealing the potential steps of innovation process can aid managers to elaborate strategies to encourage actor’s engagement, resource integration and to turn the knowledge acquired into new knowledge to gain competitiveness and renew the process over time.

 

Keywords: service-dominant logic, service ecosystems, viable systems approach, value co-creation, innovation, resource integration, actor engagement


Parole chiave


service-dominant logic, service ecosystems, viable systems approach, value co-creation, innovation, resource integration, actor engagement

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ISSN: 1971-5293

ISSNe: 2283-3374

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