Stakeholder differences in the understanding of inter-organizational concept content as a risk factor: The case for a logistics platform

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to help clarify understanding of the logistic platform concept so as to release its potential for the benefit of the logistics sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional research was conducted in Slovenia, Poland and Singapore. Web-based survey responses were obtained from four organization types: logistics companies (LCs); production or service non-LCs; branch associations/state agencies/chambers of commerce; and educational institutions.

Findings

Logistics platforms (LPFs) are a very much a multi-level phenomenon which, through macro-level organization, may multiply the micro- and meso-level effects obtained. The joint development of promising inter-organizational concepts which involve different stakeholder groups can be inefficient owing to differences in concept content understanding.

Research limitations/implications

The research was limited to Slovenia, Poland and Singapore. Further research in other countries would be beneficial, and the survey can be repeated for other inter-organizational concepts.

Practical implications

This paper proposes a general LPF model and seeks to raise awareness of the complexity surrounding the implementation of this particular inter-organizational concept. From the viewpoint of a practitioner, the knowledge that different stakeholder groups may have divergent perceptions of the concept’s content is important and will help strengthen inter-organizational projects by devoting attention to basic fact unification.

Originality/value

This paper is the first transparent overview on the understanding and utilization of LPFs in theory and practice. The paper proposes a general LPF model. The authors wish to highlight the need for research into the perceptions held among different stakeholder groups regarding the concept’s content for the implementation of inter-organizational projects.

Citation

Gajšek, B. and Rosi, B. (2015), "Stakeholder differences in the understanding of inter-organizational concept content as a risk factor: The case for a logistics platform", The International Journal of Logistics Management, Vol. 26 No. 1, pp. 107-127. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLM-06-2012-0040